If you’ve ever driven past a school in the UK, you’ll likely have noticed zigzag lines painted on the road outside the entrance. Many people wonder, “What are these for, and can I park on them?” It’s a common question—and an important one for road safety.
As one of the country’s leading line marking companies, C&R Ltd is here to explain the purpose of these zigzag lines and why they are so important.
What Do Zigzag Lines Mean?
The yellow zigzag lines outside schools (and sometimes outside hospitals or other public buildings) are there to improve visibility and safety. These markings are officially known as School Keep Clear markings.
They mean:
- No stopping, parking, or waiting during the times shown on the nearby sign.
- Even if you are just “popping in” or dropping someone off, you must not stop on these lines during restricted hours.
The main purpose of these markings is to keep the area outside the school entrance clear, so that:
✔ Children can be seen more easily when crossing the road.
✔ Drivers have a clear view of the school entrance.
✔ Traffic flow around the school is smoother and safer.
When Do the Restrictions Apply?
The times when you’re not allowed to stop on zigzag lines will usually be displayed on a nearby sign. Typically, restrictions apply during school opening and closing times, but this can vary.
Some zigzag lines outside schools may be enforced all day, Monday to Friday, depending on the local council.
What Happens If You Ignore Zigzag Lines?
Stopping on school zigzag lines can result in:
- A Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) or fine
- Increased risk of accidents
- Reduced visibility for children crossing the road
- Potential points on your licence in certain areas
These markings are there for a reason—to keep children safe. Ignoring them puts young pedestrians and other drivers at unnecessary risk.
Why Clear Zigzag Markings Are Essential
Faded or poorly maintained zigzag lines can cause confusion and reduce their effectiveness. That’s why it’s so important for councils and schools to regularly refresh these markings and ensure they are clearly visible.
At C&R Ltd, we provide professional, regulation-compliant line marking services for schools and local authorities, ensuring these safety-critical markings are clear, durable, and highly visible.
Get in Touch with C&R Ltd Today
If your school’s zigzag markings are faded or need refreshing, contact C&R Ltd today. Our expert team can ensure your school entrance is clearly marked and compliant with UK safety regulations.
Let’s help keep children safe with clear, effective line markings.