No Vehicles Except Bicycles Being Pushed vs Parking Partially on the Verge

Some of the most confusing UK traffic signs are the ones that look deceptively simple. Today, let’s clear up the difference between “No Vehicles Except Bicycles Being Pushed” and “Parking Partially on the Verge.”
No Vehicles Except Bicycles Being Pushed

- What it looks like: A plain red circle with nothing inside it.
- If used on its own it means No Vehicles at all.
- it means all vehicles are banned, but pedestrians may push a pedal cycle through.

- Meaning: No cars, no vans, no lorries, no motorbikes, no cyclists riding. Only someone walking with a bicycle by hand may pass.
- Where you’ll see it: Pedestrianised town centres, shopping streets, or restricted zones where local authorities want traffic-free access.
Memory tip: A blank red circle is the strictest of all: it says “Nothing with wheels”. The exception plate carves out the only allowance.
Parking Partially on the Verge or Footway

- What it looks like: A blue rectangular sign with a white P and a car shown with two wheels up on the verge or pavement.
- Related signs also show full or partial footway parking permissions.

- Meaning: You are permitted to park partly on the verge or footway in this signed area.
- Without this sign, it is generally an offence in London under the Greater London Council (General Powers) Act 1974, Section 15, and discouraged elsewhere.
- Where you’ll see it: Narrow residential streets where pavement parking is officially allowed to keep the carriageway clear for traffic.

👉 Memory tip: Blue rectangles = permission. The picture shows exactly how to park.
The Key Difference
- No Vehicles Except Bicycles Being Pushed = movement restriction — nothing can drive in, only someone walking a bike.
- Parking Partially on the Verge = stopping instruction — cars may put two wheels up on the verge or pavement here.
✅ Final Thought:
When in doubt, remember the basics:
- Red circle = prohibition (a ban).
- Blue rectangle = information/permission (something you may do).
Get that distinction clear, and you’ll never mix up these two very different rules.