What do yellow zig-zag lines on the road mean and can I be fined for parking on them?

PARKING on a yellow zig-zag line could land you in hot water if you don't know when and where you're allowed to do so.

Here's everything you need to know about the vibrant road markings, and how to avoid being hit with a hefty fine.

What do yellow zig-zag lines mean?

Yellow zig-zag lines indicate a part of the road where drivers shouldn't wait, stop or park.

You will usually find them painted outside the entrance and exits of schools, as well as hospitals, fire stations, police stations and ambulance stations.

It's not illegal to park on the lines under some circumstances, but the bold road markings are there to make it safer for pedestrians.

They show where on the road you must keep clear so that children and other road users can clearly see when they cross.

Typically a sign nearby will indicate the time you can't wait or park on the lines, but double yellow lines mean you must not stop at all.

You also must not stop, wait, or park on school entrance markings, even to drop off passengers.

And if you do break the rules, you could face a hefty fine.

Can I be fined for parking on yellow zig-zag lines?

You can be fined for parking on yellow zig-zag lines if it is within an allotted time.

When yellow zig-zag lines are accompanied by a sign that displays the hours of operation, you could be fined for parking, or stopping, during this time.

The same goes if you find yourself in a restricted area, like a school entrance or exit.

If there is no sign, you cannot stop or park at any time, and doing so could also land you a fine.

How much is a parking fine?

Fines for parking on yellow zig-zag lines can vary depending on your location.

If you stop in a restricted area outside a school, for example, you could face a higher fine.

It also depends on who issues the fine - drivers could face a fine of between £50 and £100 from the police, or a local authority issuing a penalty charge notice may fine you either £50 or £70.

But if you find yourself slapped with one of these fees, you might be able to lower the cost by paying it off sooner.

You usually have 28 days to pay, to pay or challenge the fine, but it could be halved if paid within 14 days.