Law change for anyone with driveway in England update as support surges

A petition to force a change in the law which would impact everyone with a driveway has soared in support. In less than a week, almost 40,000 people have signed up to the campaign at Change.org to make it illegal to park on someone else's driveway.

Many of these supporters were motivated after learning that, in the UK, parking on someone's driveway without their permission is not a criminal offence but a civil trespass, so the police are unlikely to get involved. The issue has been criticised by the RAC which said: "A curious loophole in the law means that, technically-speaking, this type of abhorrent behaviour could go unpunished."

It explained: "While there is no criminal law against the indecent act of someone parking on your driveway without your consent, your driveway is part of your property so by driving onto it the person is committing an act of trespassing.

"Trespassing, however, is classed as a civil offence not a criminal offence, meaning the police don't have the power to make an arrest."

Siamak Darvish has created the petition which can be seen here and he said: "In our community, lawlessness has become a growing concern, particularly when it comes to parking. People can park on other people's driveways without repercussions, leading to numerous complications that range from inconvenience to safety hazards. This issue is becoming increasingly urgent with the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), which bring unique risks if parked improperly.

"Making it explicitly illegal to park on someone else's driveway without consent aligns with the need to respect private property and enhance public safety. Introducing fines or stricter enforcement for these violations could serve as a deterrent, encouraging individuals to respect the property rights of others.

"Immediate action is needed to curb this chaotic situation and protect homeowners from the unpredictability and potential dangers posed by this disregard for property. Let's urge our lawmakers and community leaders to step up and create a safer neighbourhood for everyone."

One supporter, Lynne from Whitchurch, said: "In all honesty, I really thought it was an illegal offence to either block or park on someone else's drive. I am so shocked to hear that this is legal and anyone can use your PRIVATE drive."

Sue from Gloucester said: "I own two parking spaces in a residents parking area which were never marked out by the builders. There are ten others on the same area each also privately owned by the five other properties. All of us have experienced other neighbours parking in our spaces instead of their own in a different area."

Aileen added: "Why should people who have paid the council to turn the kerb & then a company to build a driveway then have to put up with anyone who wants to park on it get away with it!!! Absolutely crazy!!"

What can you do if someone parks on your driveway?

The RAC says: "There is no quick fix for nuisance chancers using your driveway to nab a parking space for the day.

"Unfortunately, there is little chance of the law getting involved and the legal action outlined below will take a considerable amount of time and - unless you have the legal add-on as part of your home insurance policy - expense.

"The best thing to do on a one off is to keep calm and don't let the situation escalate, never take the law into your own hands and do not stoop to revenge tactics that could get you prosecuted also.

"If it's causing an issue, try and speak to the person and resolve the situation sensibly." For more information from the RAC click here.

To view the petition click here.