Parking restrictions

Here you'll find frequently asked questions about what we do when introducing, changing or removing parking restrictions.

We have a duty to advertise any proposed changes to on- and off-street parking restrictions, ad this is done by an advert in the local newspaper and yellow public notices dispalyed on lampposts for 21 days.

Any comments that you may have regarding the notices must be made in writing, whether you’re objecting or supporting the proposals.

What is a parking restriction?

It's something that stops or limits you parking or waiting, as indicated by relevant road markings and/or signage, such as:

• double yellow llines
• limited waiting area 
• part or full time taxi rank
• residents' parking zone
• single yellow line

I’d like a section of double yellow lines reviewed because the road usage has changed, is this possible?

You need to write to us telling us this.  A council officer will visit the area and a proposal may be put forward to reduce the restriction. Any decision made is based on traffic management and road safety.

Why does the council have to “propose” the change?

We have to consult with the public when we wish to introduce or change a restriction. Proposed changes are advertised for 21 days to give people a chance to comment.

I thought that yellow notices displayed on lampposts told us what the council has decided?

No, this is one way we let people know that we are considering changes. Any member of the public has the right to comment and the yellow notice tell you how to do this.

How long does it take to get a restriction introduced or changed?

The legal process can be a lengthy one, taking between 3 and 8 months. In some circumstances this can take longer, such as when the proposed Order is referred to the Executive Member for Traffic and Transportation for approval.

Surely it’s just a matter of shortening the double yellow lines by a few metres?

Because the lines were brought in under a Traffic Regulation Order, we can only change them if we amend the Order and all amendments have to be advertised. This means the process isn’t as easy as a contractor simply removing the lines.

I returned home to find double yellow lines in my road. I knew nothing about them, how did this happen?

We cannot put in restrictions like double yellow lines without advertising them first. All proposed changes are advertised in the local newspaper and on lampposts in affected roads for 21 days. This gives residents the opportunity to voice their opinions. If no objections are received, the proposed Order is likely to be approved and the lines marked.

One of our officers will be able to advise on specific restrictions, but generally double yellow lines are introduced for reasons of safety and traffic management. The majority originate from requests from people living and working in the area.

Why does my road have more double yellow lines at the junction than others?

We look at the type of road and the area it is in before deciding how far to extend the double yellow lines. For example, at junctions with busy main roads you may find 8 to 10 metres of parking restrictions to prevent congestion. In quieter residential roads, 3 to 5 metres is more usual to prevent vehicles parking up to corners and obstructing access and visibility.

Vehicles frequently obstruct access to my garage / off-road parking, even though I have an “Entrance” marking. Can double yellow lines be put across the entrance?

No, it is no longer our policy to protect access to private off-street parking facilities with parking restrictions. The majority of such markings have been removed over the last decade, as matters of obstruction are dealt with by the local police. You can contact them directly on 0845 0454545. If you do not have a white “Entrance” marking, and would like to apply for one, please contact the City Helpdesk on 023 9283 4092.

Contact us

Parking Office

• Parking fines, restrictions, residents’ parking and permits
• Call 023 9268 8310 or email parking@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

Parking restrictions

• Traffic Regulation Orders and double yellow lines
• Call 023 9268 8285 or email parking@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

Disabled parking bays

• Call 023 9268 8304 or email disabledbays@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

Associated documents:

  Penalty Charge Notice Representation  (0.03 MB)
Resident or Business Meter Exemption Application  (0.02 MB)
Link 11  ( MB)