The benefits of the pavement parking ban have been hailed by Guide Dogs Scotland and Living Streets Edinburgh.
The Council previously worked with these organisations to lobby for the introduction of controls in Scotland.
Today (January 29) marks two years since enforcement began against parking on pavements, at dropped kerb crossing points and double parking. Edinburgh was the first local authority in Scotland to enforce these rules.
We took this decision to make our streets safer for pedestrians and road users. Pavement parking particularly impacts people who use wheelchairs and mobility aids, those who are blind or partially sighted and people pushing prams or buggies. It also damages pavements, which are expensive to repair and become a trip hazard for everyone.
From enforcement beginning to date there were a total of 9,467 Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) issued for footway parking. Last year saw an overall reduction of over 700 PCNs; from 5,098 in 2024 to 4,369 in 2025.
Since enforcement began there has been an overall decreasing trend in PCNs being issued for pavement parking.
There was a total of 3,497 PCNs issued for dropped kerb parking and 4,165 for double parking in the same period.
Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said:
Since we first introduced these changes two years ago, we’ve seen drivers changing their parking habits accordingly, with the problem of pavement parking disappearing in many streets across Edinburgh. We brought the ban in to provide a safe and accessible environment for everyone, especially those with sight impairments, mobility issues or pushing buggies. We’ve also heard from many people who really appreciate clearer, wider pavements and who no longer need to walk on the road to avoid parked cars. I’m also grateful for the support we’ve had from groups including Living Streets and Guide Dogs Scotland, which has been key in helping us to deliver this positive change for our city.
All drivers have a responsibility to park considerately, and where this would not cause an obstruction to the pavement or road. Whilst we ultimately want to see zero fines, the overall gradual decreasing trend shows we’re headed in the right direction.
I’m proud that we prioritised making our streets as safe and accessible as possible – and that local authorities across Scotland have been looking to Edinburgh’s lead and implemented schemes of their own since.
Niall Foley, External Affairs Manager at Guide Dogs Scotland, said:
The City of Edinburgh Council led the way on enforcing pavement parking prohibitions two years ago and now the majority of local authorities across Scotland have followed their example.
We commend the commitment of the City of Edinburgh Council to keeping pavements clear for pedestrians. People with sight loss tell us they can now get out and about in the capital more safely, without the fear of being forced on to the road by inconsiderate parking.
We’re pleased to be celebrating two years of boosting the independence and safety of all pedestrians. Congratulations to Edinburgh on reaching this key milestone.
Living Streets Edinburgh Group Convener, David Hunter said:
The Council deserves credit not only for being the first in Scotland to apply the national ban on pavement parking, but also for adopting a "no streets exempt" policy. It’s encouraging that the Council has been consistent with the no exemptions approach, which ensures a level playing field for everyone - no parking on the pavement means just that. Enforcement has been handled well in general too.
This been the most significant change to make Edinburgh a safer and more attractive city for pedestrians since the introduction of widespread 20mph speed limits.