### Supermarket Shoppers Urged to Take Note of Little-Known ‘Age Limit’ for Parent and Child Parking Bays
Motorists across the UK are being urged to familiarise themselves with a specific rule regarding the use of parent and child parking spaces at leading supermarkets including Aldi, Asda, Sainsbury’s, and Morrisons. The warning comes as confusion persists about eligibility for these bays, with many drivers unaware of the “age limit” imposed, which if unknowingly breached, could result in fines from private parking operators.
Parent and child bays are a familiar sight in most supermarket car parks, strategically located close to store entrances. These wider spaces offer valuable convenience for families needing to load buggies, car seats, and shopping with young children in tow. Yet, despite their prevalence, there is frequent uncertainty about who exactly can make use of these sought-after spaces, partly due to inconsistent or unclear signage across different retailers.
According to guidance released by industry experts at EMG Motor Group, a key criterion for using these parking bays is that the accompanying child must be under 12 years of age. The rationale behind this age limit is that children up to this age are often still subject to car seat regulations, making extra space a necessity for safety and practicality.
While there is no statutory law governing parent and child parking bays, enforcement falls under the remit of private parking operators, who manage supermarket car parks. These operators can issue Parking Charge Notices (PCNs), often up to £100, to motorists found using the spaces inappropriately—regardless of whether a child is present. Importantly, these car parks are typically privately owned, so retail chains can establish and enforce their own parking terms, frequently through their membership with an Accredited Trade Association (ATA).
A spokesperson for EMG Motor Group explained: “Though it isn’t illegal in the eyes of the law to park in a parent and child bay without a qualifying child, doing so exposes drivers to the risk of a private fine—akin to the consequences of parking in a disabled bay without a blue badge. Most motorists are presumably unaware of just how strictly these rules can be enforced.”
Given the variability in signage and enforcement across different supermarket chains and sites, experts recommend that drivers unsure of the local policy should seek clarification from the store itself. This simple step could help avoid the unwelcome surprise of a penalty notice appearing on their windscreen after a quick shopping trip.
One lingering ambiguity concerns the eligibility of expectant mothers to use these spaces. While some believe pregnant women should be allowed due to their increased need for extra space, official guidance remains hazy. The RAC, which provides motoring advice, notes: “Parent and child bays are reserved for parents or guardians accompanying children under 12. The use of these spaces by pregnant women is not officially recognised, so asking the specific supermarket manager is advisable to prevent confusion or fines.”
The inconsistency in rules has led to calls for clearer, universally visible signage and standardised guidelines across UK supermarkets, to avoid penalising well-meaning customers or sparking disputes in busy car parks.
In short, while the extra room offered by parent and child bays can make the family shop a far less stressful experience, motorists should remain vigilant and check local rules before making use of these bays. With hefty fines looming for non-compliance, sticking to the letter of the car park’s guidelines is the safest option.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen if retailers will move to eliminate the grey areas in their parking policies. Until then, being cautious and requesting information at the store may be the best defence against unexpected penalties for UK drivers navigating their weekly shop.