KerbWatch guide
Kerbside restrictions explained
The same stretch of road can have different rules by time of day, vehicle type, bay, permit or temporary traffic order. That is why KerbWatch should help users notice changing activity without claiming that a report determines whether parking is legal.
Updated 7 October 2026
Quick answer
Kerbside restrictions are communicated through road markings, signs, parking-zone rules and temporary notices. Community reports can add local context, but they do not replace the restriction displayed at the street.
Key facts
Read the sign that applies to the specific bay or section of road.
Temporary restrictions can alter normal parking arrangements.
Loading, waiting and parking restrictions are not always the same thing.
Local authority guidance is the best source when the street information is unclear.
Start with signs and markings
Use the markings on the carriageway or kerb together with the nearest relevant sign. Controlled zones can also affect how restrictions are communicated, so an isolated observation may not tell the whole story.
Watch for temporary changes
Events, works, removals and safety measures can introduce temporary parking or access controls. These notices can be more recent than a driver's previous experience of the street.
Where KerbWatch fits
KerbWatch can highlight that users are seeing increased kerbside activity or a changing road situation. It should prompt awareness and verification, not replace the official information displayed on site.