Loading / Unloading — Genuine Loading Activity Occurring

Parking on single or double yellow lines is generally permitted for loading and unloading where no loading ban is in place (indicated by kerb marks). If loading/unloading was genuinely taking place, this provides a complete defence to a parking contravention on yellow lines. The driver must demonstrate that goods were actively being loaded or unloaded and that they were not absent from the vehicle for longer than reasonably necessary.

Legal basis

Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 s.5 and sch.1 (exemptions); London Local Authorities Act 1996; DfT Operational Guidance 2008 on loading

How to identify this in your case

You were actively loading or unloading at the time of the alleged contravention. Gather evidence: delivery/collection receipts, photos, witness statements. Check whether loading marks (kerb blips) are present — if they are, the loading exemption does not apply.

Sample appeal wording

Dear Representations Team, Re: PCN [NUMBER] — Vehicle [REG] I formally challenge this PCN on the basis that loading/unloading was in progress at the time of the alleged contravention. Parking on yellow lines for the purpose of loading or unloading is a statutory exemption under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 and Schedule 1 thereof, provided no loading ban (kerb marks) is in force at the location. I can confirm: 1. I was actively loading/unloading [DESCRIBE GOODS/ITEMS] at the time 2. The activity was completed as expeditiously as possible 3. No loading restriction kerb marks were present at the location (photograph attached) I attach supporting evidence: [delivery receipt / business invoice / photographs of goods being loaded]. I request cancellation of this PCN. Yours faithfully, [NAME]

Replace [PARKING DATE], [NtK DATE] etc. with your own dates before sending.

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Sources

Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 sch.1
DfT Operational Guidance 2008 ch.5