There is a little-known law in the UK that could result in a £500 fine for drivers who park over a manhole.
Under the Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004 (Section 42), parking over a fire hydrant can result in a fine of up to £500 (approximately US$675).
But what is the relationship between fire hydrants and manholes? In fact, in the UK, some fire hydrants are covered by manhole covers, and parking over them may prevent firefighters from accessing the equipment.
The issue came to attention last week following a Facebook post by Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service. “What’s wrong with this photo? A vehicle parked on top of a fire hydrant,” the post’s caption reads.
“Recently, this very situation delayed the arrival of our personnel in Lancaster and prevented firefighters from immediately securing a water supply during an emergency. This is not just inconsiderate parking, it is illegal.”
“Under the Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004 (Section 42), parking over a fire hydrant can result in a fine of up to £500. Firefighters also have powers to remove obstructing vehicles, including breaking side windows and disengaging handbrakes, if necessary,” the post further states.
In the comments section, drivers were shocked by this information, which many people did not know until now. “Maybe I should know the answer, but is it clearly displayed everywhere? I may have violated it without realizing it,” one user commented.
Photo: Unsplash/Facebook. This content is created with the help of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
