Loading and unloading

You can load or unload for up to 40 minutes if your activity is constant. Check for yellow stripes on the kerb. Double yellow stripes mean no loading at all. Single stripes mean there is a time restriction and you need to refer to the kerbside signs.

You cannot load or unload during operational times if there are red lines. Most single red lines apply between 7am and 7pm but may have red loading 'boxes' marked on the road where loading is permitted at certain times. Double red lines apply all day.

Visit Transport for London for more details on red routes.

You can stop to load and unload on parking bays (such as pay and display or permit bays) for a maximum of 20 minutes during controlled hours.

You should avoid using disabled bays. You should not load and unload at a restricted bus stop, bus stand or taxi rank.

You cannot load and unload on:

• diplomatic parking bays
• suspended parking bays (unless you have requested the suspension)

Find out more about suspension of parking bays.

If you receive a parking ticket when loading or unloading, you should:

• not ignore it, as penalties can escalate if you do not pay or challenge promptly
• not argue with the civil enforcement officer after it has been issued, as they cannot and will not cancel it
• move the vehicle, or else it may be removed
• pay promptly if you were in the wrong

If you see the traffic warden or civil enforcement officer, ask them to make a note of the fact that you were loading on their phone. This might help you challenge the parking ticket later.

If you have been away from the vehicle and return to find a parking ticket, be ready to explain. You will need to say exactly what you were doing to the council.

Keep copies of any documentary evidence, such as delivery notes and receipts.

For any exceptions or questions you may have:

• email us at parking@southwark.gov.uk
• call 0800 138 9081 or 0344 800 2736