Nuisance vehicles

What sort of activity is considered to involve nuisance vehicles?

It is illegal to sell two or more vehicles on the road within 500 metres of each other as part of a business. These are considered to be nuisance vehicles.

Garages and businesses cause a nuisance to local residents by placing cars for sale on a street or in lay-bys. 

This can also take up valuable parking spaces required for local residents.

Can I be prosecuted for this? 

• Yes, we will issue a £100 fixed penalty notice or prosecute you. If you are found guilty you will have to pay a fine of up to £2,500.
• The police will also check to ensure a vehicle advertised for sale has all the legal documentation (such as insurance) to be kept on the public highway. If not, they may seize the vehicle as well.
• You will not be convicted if you can prove you were not running a business. 

Can I sell my car on the road? 

Yes, as long as it is only one car which:

• is taxed
• is insured
• has a MOT

and that you are not running a vehicle business.

Should I buy a car for sale on the road?

No, don't be tempted to buy a vehicle advertised for sale on a road, and never buy a car without a log book.

If you're buying a used car privately, you should be dealing with the person at the address shown on the log book or at a garage.

What other activities involve nuisance vehicles?

Repairing on the highway.

Nuisance vehicles can also:

• be at garages
• include members of the public constantly repairing vehicles on the road as part of a business
• include a vehicle that is being repaired on the street. This can cause a nuisance, look unsightly, damage the environment (leaking oil) and also be a danger to passers-by. 

Can I be prosecuted for this? 

Yes, we will issue a £100 fixed penalty notice or prosecute you and if found guilty a fine of up to £2,500.

The police will also check to ensure a vehicle being repaired has all the legal documentation (such as insurance) to be kept on the public highway. If not, they may seize the vehicle as well.

You will not be convicted if you can prove you were not running a business. 

My car has broken down - can I repair it on the road? 

Yes, you can repair your own vehicle if it has broken down, as long as you do not annoy the people who live nearby and the work is completed within 72 hours.