The Scottish Government has launched a public information campaign to make drivers aware they could be fined £100 for pavement parking from 11 December.
The Transport (Scotland) Act 2019 bans pavement parking, double parking and parking at dropped kerbs, with certain exemptions designated by local authorities - for example to ensure safe access for emergency vehicles.
From 11 December 2023, local authorities can begin enforcing the law, which means drivers could be fined £100 for these parking behaviours; reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days.
Scotland is the first country in the UK to make pavement parking illegal nationwide.
The public information campaign includes radio, outdoor and social media advertising, highlighting the danger that pavement parking poses to pavement users by making them move around the car and onto the road.
Transport minister Fiona Hyslop said: ‘We’re highlighting the danger that illegal pavement parking poses to pavement users, and in particular those with mobility issues or visual impairments, or parents pushing prams and buggies.'
Mike Harrison, who has used a wheelchair following a cycling accident 17 years ago, said: ‘Vehicles on the pavement can be just a nuisance and they can be a severe obstacle.
I am often in danger of scratching my hands on a wall, or vegetation sticking out makes it difficult to get past. Once you're on the road, of course, you're more vulnerable, especially if the traffic is coming up behind me.
'The new enforcement will make it clear to people what is required and will make journeys safer and more convenient.'
Michael Tornow, who has a guide dog called Pebbles said: ‘As somebody who is completely blind, that's meant stepping out into the road. That's obviously quite dangerous, sometimes not being able to hear because of traffic noise.
‘I also have to try and work out myself, without being able to see, where I can then step back onto the pavement.’
