NI loading / unloading defence — genuine loading on yellow lines
Loading and unloading concessions in NI mirror but do not exactly replicate the English position. The NI Highway Code and DfI guidance permit loading/unloading on yellow lines unless 'No Loading' kerb-blip markings are present and there are accompanying signs (NI sign 638.1A or similar). Genuine continuous loading activity (not merely passenger pick-up) is a defence. The motorist must produce delivery notes / commercial documentation.
Legal basis
Road Traffic Regulation (Northern Ireland) Order 1997 (SI 1997/276 (N.I. 2)) — the traffic regulation order imposing the waiting/loading restriction; Traffic Signs Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1997 (SR 1997/386) — kerb markings and signs indicating a loading ban; Department for Infrastructure guidance / the Highway Code on loading and unloading
How to identify this in your case
Check kerb for blip-marks (no loading) and presence of NI sign. If blips/signs absent, loading is permitted. Keep delivery notes.
Sample appeal wording
Dear Sir/Madam, Re: PCN [PCN_NUMBER] On [DATE] at [TIME] my vehicle was [actively loading/unloading] [GOODS] at [LOCATION] (delivery note attached). The kerb at this location does not bear 'no loading' blip markings and no sign prohibiting loading is in place. Under the DfI Highway Code (NI) and the principle that loading on yellow lines is permitted absent specific prohibition, the contravention is not made out. Please cancel. Yours faithfully, [NAME]
Replace [PARKING DATE], [NtK DATE] etc. with your own dates before sending.
Beat It writes this argument automatically
Scan your PCN — our AI checks if this ground applies to your specific ticket, drafts a properly-cited appeal letter, and submits it to the council on your behalf. Only pay if you win.
Scan my ticketSources
- legislation.gov.uk/nisi/1997/276
- legislation.gov.uk/nisr/1997/386
- nidirect.gov.uk — Highway Code
Related appeal grounds
- Aberdeen LEZ: Special Vehicle Local Exemption
- Advisory bay has no legal force behind it
- Airport Land Isn't "Relevant Land" — They Can't Pin the Driver's Charge on You as Keeper
- Appeal to an Independent Tribunal
- Bath Clean Air Zone discount not applied to your charge
- Birmingham CAZ — NHS Worker / Hospital Visitor Exemption