Caithness residents warned ‘never take matters into your own hands’ if a stranger parks on your driveway

Caithness homeowners are warned that motorists can park in their driveways due to a legal loophole that doesn’t deem this as breaking the law.

The motoring experts at LeaseLoco.com are offering homeowners advice on what preventative measures to take to ensure strangers can’t use their driveways.

Rule 243 of the Highway Code provides a list of different places where drivers must not park, including near school entrances and bus stops, within 10 metres of a junction, and anywhere that prevents access to emergency services.

Parking on private driveways, however, is classed as trespassing, which is a civil matter, meaning that neither police nor the council have the right to remove the vehicle because it’s on private property.

In this unfortunate situation, it’s important for homeowners not to take matters into their own hands and try to remove the car themselves, as this can get them prosecuted for vandalism.

It’s best to try to resolve the problem by speaking to the other party, and if it still keeps happening regularly, homeowners may need to take legal action.

To prevent these issues, homeowners can restrict access to their driveways by putting out removable parking bollards, traffic cones, or expandable barriers when they’re not at home.

Clear and visible “No Parking” or “Private Driveway” signage can also act as deterrents, as well as installing a driveway gate or cameras.

Some homeowners are even turning the inconvenience into an opportunity by renting out their driveways when not in use.

A survey revealed nearly a quarter of UK residents are renting out their driveways, or considering it, to earn extra income and make use of unused space, particularly in areas near stadiums, arenas, and city centres, where parking spots can be scarce during bigger events.

This is especially popular in the football community, where households living near stadiums can earn hundreds per football season by allowing fans to use their driveways on game days.

John Wilmot, CEO of car leasing comparison site LeaseLoco.com, said: “Many homeowners are shocked to find out that a stranger parking in their driveway is not actually a criminal offence, despite it being a clear violation of personal space.

“This legal grey area can be frustrating, especially if you live in a busy area where it happens regularly, so it’s important to take steps to prevent unwanted parking in the first place.

“While the most effective way to protect your property is installing a driveway gate, putting out simple deterrents like parking bollards or posts, cones, and signs can also help to prevent strangers from parking in your driveway.

“On the flip side, if you live near venues or in busy areas, this situation can be turned into an opportunity, as you could allow other motorists to park in your driveway, on your own terms.

“Renting out your driveway when you’re not using it is becoming increasingly popular and can be a great way to earn some extra income.

“If you do find yourself in a situation where you come home and see a stranger parking on your property, remember to never take matters into your own hands, or it can land you in serious trouble.

“Start off with a calm conversation, and if the issues persist, you may need to take legal action.”