You need to leave and there's a car blocking your driveway. Here's what to try — starting with the quickest fix and working up from there.
Try to reach the driver first
Most blocked driveways are accidents. The driver popped into a shop, misjudged the space, didn't notice the drop kerb. A quick message is almost always the fastest resolution. If the car has a NudgeDriver QR sticker, scan it. The driver gets an instant notification on their phone — no confrontation, no note left in the rain, no waiting. Most move their car within a few minutes. No sticker? You can try:
- Asking nearby shops or residents if they recognise the vehicle
- Leaving a polite note on the windscreen with your phone number (be aware this shares your number with a stranger)
If you can't reach the driver
The car is on the public road, blocking your dropped kerb
Your first call should be your local council's parking enforcement team. Many councils treat dropped kerb complaints as a priority and can send a warden quickly. Search "[your council name] parking enforcement" to find the right number or online form. If your council can't help or the situation is urgent, call 101 (the police non-emergency line). Have ready:
- The vehicle's registration number
- The street address
- A brief description of the vehicle
The car is on your private property
If the vehicle is physically on your driveway or forecourt (not just on the road in front of it), the police can attend and ask the driver to move it. Some homeowners in this situation use a licensed private land towing company. If you go down this route, check that the operator is accredited — the British Parking Association (BPA) or the International Parking Community (IPC) both run accreditation schemes. Using an unregistered operator can create further problems.
It is generally understood that clamping a vehicle or blocking it in yourself is not permitted and could expose you to liability. We'd strongly recommend seeking official advice before taking any physical action.
If it keeps happening
If your driveway is regularly blocked — common near train stations, schools, or town centres — it's worth building a record. Each time it happens, take a photo showing:
- The vehicle and its registration
- The location
- The date and time (your phone timestamp is fine) A documented log makes any formal complaint to your council much stronger. It can also support a request for increased patrol frequency, or in some cases an advisory signage review for your street.
A note on dropped kerb markings
Faded yellow kerb markings make enforcement harder — a warden will often give the benefit of the doubt to a driver if the markings aren't visible. If yours have worn away, contact your council and ask to have them repainted. It's usually a straightforward request and makes a real difference.
In short
Start by trying to reach the driver — it's quicker and calmer than any other route. If that doesn't work, your local council is usually the right first call. Keep a record if it's a recurring problem, and check your dropped kerb markings are still visible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it illegal to block someone's driveway in the UK?
Generally speaking, parking across a dropped kerb is considered an offence under the Highway Code (Rule 243). It's worth checking with your local council or the police for advice specific to your situation.
Can I call the police if a car is blocking my driveway?
Yes. You can contact your local police non-emergency line (101) or, in some areas, the local council's parking enforcement team. Provide the vehicle registration, location, and a description. Police can issue a Fixed Penalty Notice or have the vehicle removed if the obstruction is serious.
Can I have a car towed from in front of my driveway?
You cannot arrange a private tow yourself — that could expose you to liability. However, if the obstruction is on a public road, police or local council enforcement officers have the power to arrange removal. Contact 101 or your council's parking enforcement team.
What if the car is on my private property?
It is generally understood that clamping or blocking in a vehicle yourself is not advisable and may expose you to liability. Seek official advice before taking any action.
What is the fastest way to contact the driver of a blocking car?
If the car has a NudgeDriver QR sticker, you can scan it and send an anonymous alert in seconds — no app, no phone call, no confrontation needed. The driver is notified instantly via WhatsApp or SMS. This is by far the quickest and most peaceful resolution.
How long does it take for councils to act on a blocked driveway?
Response times vary widely. Some councils have dedicated parking enforcement teams that can respond within the hour; others may take several hours or defer to police. If your driveway is frequently blocked, logging incidents and speaking to your council about a 'no parking' advisory notice can help deter repeat offenders.
For educational purposes only. The information in this article is provided for general awareness and is not professional or official advice. NudgeDriver is not a solicitor or legal professional. Always consult your local council, the police, or a qualified professional for guidance specific to your circumstances.