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Blue badge holders vs blue badge spaces in your area
Results for . Based on {Postcode}
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Blue badge holders*
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Blue badge spaces*
*Data provided by UK councils who are responsible for Blue Badge permit applications, and Blue Badge parking assets. Where no data is available, the local council were unable to share some or all the information.
Where in the UK has the most parking spaces for blue badge holders?
These are the top UK countries where Blue Badge holders have the most number of spaces to park with ease.
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Greater London, 15,871 bays
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West Midlands, 2,951 bays
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Hampshire, 2,357 bays
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Staffordshire, 2,088 bays
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Berkshire, 1,811 bays
Misusing a Blue Badge space: what are the consequences?
Parking in a Blue Badge bay without a badge isn’t just inconsiderate — it’s against the law.
Local councils issue penalty charge notices (PCNs) for misuse, with fines reaching up to £1,000. That includes for:
- Parking in a designated space without a badge
- Using someone else’s badge when they’re not with you
- Copying or faking a badge
- Not displaying your badge properly
Blue Badge fraud is on the rise. Councils take this very seriously, and many have enforcement officers who carry out regular checks.
If you don't have a badge, don’t risk it.
| Region | No. PCNs issued¹ |
|---|---|
|
East Midlands
|
63,478
|
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East of England
|
23,151
|
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London
|
126,619
|
|
North East
|
28,568
|
|
North West
|
104,228
|
|
Northern Ireland
|
21,554
|
|
Scotland
|
56,305
|
|
South East
|
106,606
|
|
South West
|
51,621
|
|
Wales
|
45,210
|
|
West Midlands
|
34,060
|
|
Yorkshire & the Hymber
|
43,910
|
Where you can and can't park with a blue badge
Having a Blue Badge opens up more parking options, but there are still a few rules to follow. Some cities also have their own restrictions, so it’s worth checking local rules before you go.
You can park:
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In designated disabled bays
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On single or double yellow lines - usually for up to 3 hours, unless signs say otherwise
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In some pay-and-display areas for free, again check local signs
You can't park
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Blocking driveways, junctions or emergency access
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Where there are loading restrictions or clearways
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Using a badge that isn’t yours - or letting someone else use yours without you
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For longer than any time limits allow - even with a badge
Need more help?
Do I need to pay car tax if I have a blue badge?
Not always. If you get certain disability benefits, you might not have to pay car tax or you could get a reduction. Check what you’re eligible for.
Can someone else use my badge?
Only if they’re driving you, or picking you up. If they’re using it without you there, that’s badge misuse and it can lead to a fine or having your badge taken away.
What if my badge is lost or stolen or damaged?
You'll need to let your local council know as soon as you can. They’ll cancel the old one and help you apply for a replacement. Report a lost or stolen Blue Badge.
Can I use my Blue Badge abroad?
Yes, you can use your Blue Badge in quite a few European countries. But the rules can vary, so check before you go.
Can I use my Blue Badge in parent and child spaces?
These bays are usually on private land, like supermarkets or retail parks, and they’re not officially covered by the Blue Badge scheme.
Some places might make exceptions, especially if you're travelling with a child and have mobility needs. But, it’s always best to check the signs or ask staff before you park.
Unless otherwise stated, all research was carried out by OnePoll on behalf of Confused.com of 2,000 UK drivers. This was conducted between the 17th and 24th April, 2025.
Blue Badge parking spaces displayed are those listed on Google Maps. This may not include private or on-street parking spaces.
Blue Badges parking, permit and PCN information based on a Freedom of Information request issued to UK councils, March 2025
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