School entrances can be busy and dangerous.
During drop-off and pick-up times, when all the cars and people are rushing around, the kids, especially, might not always be paying attention to the dangers around them.
To keep these areas safe, you’ll often see yellow zigzag lines marked outside school gates, which are sometimes accompanied by a SCHOOL KEEP CLEAR message.
These markings are legally required to keep children safe and reduce risks in areas near schools.
However, lots of drivers still don’t quite understand what they mean, when they’re in effect, or what happens if you ignore them.
This blog will focus on what school entrance road markings look like, why they exist and the safety role they play, the key rules you must follow under the Highway Code, what happens if you park on these markings, common misunderstandings, and tips for safe and legal parking.
What are school entrance road markings?
If you’ve ever driven past a school, you’ve probably seen bright yellow zigzag lines painted directly outside the main entrance.
These markings are designed to be easily visible, and they serve as a reminder to drivers that stopping is prohibited. You’ll usually also see a sign nearby that explains the rules and when they apply.
It’s a common thought by most that it’s okay to wait there temporarily while you’re picking up your child from school; however, if you park in one of these areas or even just wait for a short duration, you’ll face the consequences.
As they’re backed by law and by the Highway Code (i.e. sections 5 and 8 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act (RTRA) 1984), you’ll likely get a ticket.
The specific Highway Code quote states:
“You must not wait or park, or stop to set down and pick up passengers, on school entrance markings when upright signs indicate a prohibition of stopping.”
Why do these markings exist?
The short answer? To protect children and improve safety.
Children are especially vulnerable road users. They lack the experience and awareness that most adults possess, so they may develop a habit of crossing unpredictably or rushing into the road without checking first.
A vehicle stopped on the zigzags creates a dangerous obstruction, blocking the view for both children and drivers.
The markings serve several important purposes:
- Protecting children’s safety:
Keeping sightlines clear so drivers can see children. - Reducing obstructions:
The markings prevent parked vehicles from causing blockage or forcing others to overtake dangerously near a school. - Improving visibility:
The zigzags are designed to make sure drivers approaching the school have a clear view of pedestrians and other traffic.
Without these markings, the area outside schools would likely become congested with cars stopping wherever they please, which can cause accidents.
The key rules for school entrance markings
Here’s what every driver needs to know:
No parking or waiting
You cannot park your car on the zigzag lines, regardless of how long you are staying.
No stopping to drop off or pick up passengers
Even pulling over briefly to let your child out breaches the rules.
Check the upright signs
Some school markings apply only at specific times (e.g., during school start and finish hours), while others may be in effect all day, so it’s crucial to check signage.
Follow the Highway Code
Rule 238 makes it clear: waiting or parking on school entrance markings is not permitted where signs indicate a restriction.
What are the penalties and consequences?
Some drivers assume that stopping on zigzag lines is a minor issue. In reality, enforcement is strict. Local councils have clear powers to act.
Here’s how enforcement typically works:
- Civil enforcement officers:
Council officers patrol school areas and can issue Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) on the spot. - CCTV and cameras:
Many councils use camera enforcement vehicles or fixed cameras outside schools to monitor compliance. - Fines:
A typical PCN for parking on school markings is £70, which is reduced to £35 if the ticket is paid within 14 days. - Further consequences:
Failure to pay these tickets can lead to increased fines, enforcement action, and even vehicle clamping or towing in repeat cases.
Common questions and misunderstandings
Despite the clarity of the rules, some misconceptions persist. Let’s clear up a few common questions:
Can I just stop for a moment?
The rules prohibit any stopping, even briefly.
What if I have a Blue Badge?
School entrances are a no-parking zone for everybody, so even if you hold a blue badge, it does not apply.
What about stopping opposite the zigzags?
Although not technically illegal, parking directly opposite a school entrance can still cause obstructions and is strongly discouraged. Local restrictions may also apply, so always check signage.
What if the school is closed?
It’s best to check before acting. If there are upright signs with time constraints, the rules only apply during those times. If there are no signs, the rules usually apply all the time.
Where should you park for school drop-offs?
It’s completely understandable to want to park as close to the school as possible, but for the safety of everyone on the road and the children at the school, it’s best to arrive a few minutes early so you can park a bit further away and stay on the right side of the law.
Some schools have designated drop-off zones, which you should definitely use as they’re safer and supervised.
Always be mindful of the residents as well; don’t block their driveways or cause obstructions.
A final thought
School entrance markings may be strict, maybe even frustrating, which is understandable.
It makes sense to want to park as close to the school as possible to ensure your child’s safety.
What’s important to understand is that they are designed for that very reason, to ensure your child’s safety. The zigzags are there to make drivers aware of the area, and the rules are strict, but they’re clear.
Pricey fines may seem like a strict penalty, but the alternative poses a risk to pedestrian safety.
Abide by the rules of these school entrances, and you can ensure that you are prioritising the safety of the school’s children.