The roads around schools can become very busy during drop-off and pick-up times. Parking restrictions and traffic controls are in place to help protect children, reduce congestion and create a safer environment for pupils, parents, residents and other road users.
Understanding the signs and road markings around schools helps everyone make safer choices.
Yellow lines
Single yellow lines
Single yellow lines mean that waiting or parking is restricted at certain times.
Always check nearby signs for details of when the restriction applies. For example:
No waiting: Monday to Friday, 8am to 9.30am and 2.30pm to 4pm
You must not park or wait during the restricted times, even for a short period.
Stopping to drop off or collect passengers may be allowed unless other restrictions apply.
Double yellow lines
Double yellow lines mean that waiting and parking are not allowed at any time.
This applies:
- 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- whether the school is open or closed
- even if you are only stopping briefly
Keeping double yellow lines clear helps maintain visibility and allows traffic and pedestrians to move safely.
Kerb markings (no loading or unloading)
Yellow kerb markings show where loading and unloading restrictions apply.
- A single yellow kerb mark means loading and unloading is restricted during the times shown on nearby signs.
- Double yellow kerb marks mean loading and unloading is not allowed at any time.
These restrictions are enforceable, so always check the signs before stopping.
School Safety Zones
A School Safety Zone is an area around a school where additional traffic and parking controls are introduced to improve safety.
These areas may include:
- reduced speed limits
- parking restrictions
- school warning signs
- marked keep-clear areas
Restrictions usually apply during school arrival and departure times. Signs at the entrance to the zone will show when they are in operation.
When driving through a School Safety Zone:
- reduce your speed
- look out for children crossing the road
- follow all signs and road markings
- take extra care around pedestrians and cyclists
Advisory 20mph speed limits
Some schools have advisory 20mph speed limits to encourage drivers to slow down during busy periods.
These are usually shown on school warning signs and may include flashing lights when children are likely to be present.
Although advisory limits are not always legally enforceable, driving at a lower speed gives you more time to react to unexpected situations and helps keep children safer.
School warning signs
School warning signs are red triangular signs showing two children walking. They warn drivers that they are approaching a school and children may be crossing nearby.
Some signs may also include additional information, such as:
- the word "School"
- "Patrol" where a School Crossing Patrol is present
- details of School Safety Zone restrictions
Always read the full sign and take extra care when approaching a school.
Helping to keep children safe
When dropping off or collecting children:
- park legally and considerately
- do not park where restrictions apply
- do not stop on school entrance markings or yellow zig-zag "Keep Clear" markings
- avoid blocking driveways, crossings or junctions
- encourage children to use designated crossing points
- consider walking part of the journey if parking is limited
Every restriction around a school is designed to help protect children. By following signs and road markings, you can help create a safer environment for everyone.
Reporting parking concerns near schools
If you see illegal or inconsiderate parking outside a school, you can report it through the Lincolnshire County Council parking enforcement service.
Requesting a Traffic Regulation Order
If you would like to request a new Traffic Regulation Order in your area, contact your local county councillor.