Parking Dispensations When Moving House: Everything You Need to Know
When planning a move, one overlooked—but vital—task is arranging a parking dispensation. Without it, your removals van could receive a fine or even be forced to park far from your property, causing delays and complications.
At New Horizons Removals, we help customers navigate the rules and regulations around parking dispensations when moving to ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.
This guide explains what a parking dispensation is, when you need one, how to apply, and who to contact in your local area.
What Is a Parking Dispensation?
A parking dispensation is formal permission from the local authority to park in a restricted area—such as yellow lines, residents-only bays, or controlled zones—for a short period during your move.
It’s designed for practical situations where normal parking rules would disrupt a time-sensitive activity, like moving house.
Why Parking Dispensations Matter When Moving
Benefits of arranging a parking dispensation when moving:
- Allows the removals vehicle to park close to your home
- Reduces the time and labour costs for your move
- Minimises disruption to traffic and pedestrians
- Helps protect your belongings by reducing carry distance
- Avoids Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs)
Parking dispensations when moving are particularly useful in built-up areas like town centres, terraced streets, or anywhere with restricted parking zones.
When Do You Need a Parking Dispensation?
You may need one if:
- Your removals vehicle needs to park on single or double yellow lines
- You live in a Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ) or residents-only area
- There are no available pay-and-display bays nearby
- Loading restrictions apply during the hours you plan to move
Even if you have a driveway, the size of the removals van may require additional access space.
📌 Tip: Apply as early as possible—most councils require 3–7 working days’ notice for a dispensation.
How to Apply for a Parking Dispensation
The process varies slightly depending on the local council, but generally includes:
✅ Steps:
- Check your local authority website
- Fill in the application form (usually online)
- Provide vehicle registration number, size and duration
- Pay the fee (typically £25–£70 depending on the borough and duration)
A printable confirmation or physical permit will be provided, which must be displayed in the vehicle.
Councils That Offer Online Applications
Here are examples of where to apply for parking dispensations when moving in popular local areas:
- Swindon Borough Council
🔗 Apply for temporary parking arrangements - Wiltshire Council
🔗 Dispensation and suspension requests - Reading Borough Council
🔗 Temporary Parking Dispensations
How New Horizons Removals Helps
When you book with us, we’ll:
- Help you assess whether a dispensation is needed
- Offer guidance on applying with your local authority
- Coordinate the arrival of our removals vehicle to fit the approved timeframe
- Provide flexible scheduling in case of delays or last-minute changes
We’ve helped hundreds of families and businesses secure parking dispensations when moving—saving time, money, and hassle.
Common Questions
❓ What if I don’t get a dispensation?
Without one, your removals van may receive a parking fine or be forced to park further away. This could increase your moving time and costs.
❓ Can I use my visitor permit?
In most cases, visitor permits only cover standard vehicles and won’t apply to large removals lorries or loading zones. A dispensation is the correct legal solution.
❓ Do I need one for both addresses?
Yes—if both locations have restrictions, you’ll likely need a dispensation at each end of your move.
Booking a parking dispensation when moving might seem like a minor detail—but it can have a big impact on the success of your moving day. At New Horizons Removals, we make sure every box is ticked, including the ones that go on your windscreen.
📞 Ready to book your move? Contact us today and we’ll help plan every step—from packing to parking.
