Using a blue badge - what you need to know
You can find full details in the booklet 'The Blue Badge Scheme: rights and responsibilities in England'. Here's a quick summary of the key points.
Where you cannot park with a blue badge
Even with a blue badge, you must not park in the following places.
- Where loading is not allowed. Look for yellow lines and signs, including time restrictions.
- On dropped kerbs (where the pavement slopes for crossing)
- On pedestrian crossings
- In bus stops or taxi ranks
- On "School Keep Clear" markings
- In bus, tram or cycle lanes
- In "No Stopping" zones (Clearways)
- In parking bays that are temporarily suspended
If you park in these places, you could get a parking fine (Penalty Charge Notice) just like any other driver.
Examples of restrictions
- No loading areas: look for yellow kerb markings and signs saying "No loading".
- Loading bays: only for loading or unloading goods.
- Bus stops: only buses can stop here.
Where you can park in Bradford
- Free limited waiting bays: you can park here with your blue bade and clock displayed.
- Yellow lines: you can park for up to 3 hours if
- there are no loading restrictions
- you don’t block traffic or pedestrians
- you display your parking clock set to your arrival time
- you're not next to a dropped kerb
- Council car parks:
- blue badge holders can park for free in Pay and Display bays for the maximum time allowed.
- some car parks need a permit even in disabled bays - check the signs.
- On-street disabled bays: Some have time limits - check the sign and use your clock.
How to apply for a blue badge
Visit our blue badge scheme page to apply or learn more.
Misusing a blue badge is a crime
We are committed to reducing fraudulent use of blue badges by prosecuting drivers who do so.
Examples of misuse:
- using an expired badge
- using someone else's badge when they're not with you
- using a badge that's been lost, stolen, or copied
You can report misuse using our online form, or call the confidential fraud hotline: 01274 437511.