Is it illegal to stop or park at a loading dock?

PARKING is often a gray area for drivers and loading bays are even murkier than most.

With illegal parking fines becoming more expensive than ever, we’re trying to break down the rules to keep your driving costs to a minimum.

1

Can I be fined for parking in a loading bay?

A loading dock is used to load or unload goods from a vehicle.

They are commonly used by delivery drivers when delivering goods to facilities.

They are usually outlined with yellow or white dotted lines and say “Loading Only”.

Loading bays should not be used for parking unless there is a sign saying the spot can be used for parking and at what time.

If the space is used for parking and the sign says “Loading Only” you risk a fine.

The fine may vary depending on your community’s parking laws.

In London you will be fined £130, but this can be halved to £65 if you pay it within two weeks.

Who is allowed to stop at a loading dock?

Anyone can stop in a cargo bay as long as it is being used for their purpose.

Some loading bays may be truck-only, so stay away from these if in a car.

If you use a loading dock, you have 20 minutes to load and unload.

Moving vehicles have a slightly longer time of 40 minutes, but loading and unloading must be continuous.

If you don’t load or unload continuously, you also risk a fine.

Some areas of the country are hotspots for parking fines, so it’s wise to heed the rules.

Can I park overnight in a loading bay?

Look for signs around the loading bay to see if overnight parking is allowed there.

Some have signs saying charging only from 8am to 6pm and below that a sign saying parking is available from 6pm to 8am.

There is no blanket rule for parking in loading bays and you should always check with your local authority.

Motorists ended up paying fines for parking in loading bays that didn’t have a sign saying they weren’t allowed to do so.

Such high fines can be a real headache for van drivers who have to use such parking lots on a regular basis.