Mum sparks social media debate over parking etiquette

They may be called "parents with prams" parking spaces, but who do you think qualifies?

When you visit a shopping centre or carpark of any kind, you’ll generally find a few different types of parking spaces.

Of course, you have spots designated for those with disabilities. There may be parking spots for seniors, or electric vehicle charging spaces. And, there could also be "parents with prams" car spaces.

But, one mum has started a debate online around just who these spaces are really for, and everyone is weighing in.

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A debate has started around just who can park in a 'parents with prams' space. Image: TikTok / @dr.katie.h.

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The etiquette question everyone is asking

Katie, a doctor and mum from the UK, has kickstarted a debate after taking her concerns around parents parking spots to TikTok this week.

“Can someone please tell me, what is the etiquette with this parking space?” the video began, showing a ‘parents with prams’ car space.

“So clearly, these parking spots are for people with prams. But, what if you have a child that is definitely still young enough to still need a pram, but you don’t always use a pram? 

“For example, you would really benefit from having the extra space to open your car doors to get a baby or a very small toddler into their car seat without whacking into the car next to you, but you’re technically not using a pram. Can you park in those spots, or do you have to just go and find a normal spot?”

Adding that she’s seen just about everyone parking in the spots, she then asked if there’s any rules around who can park there whatsoever.

“I have definitely seen people parking in those spots with no prams, no children, no car seats inside their cars. So, what are the rules?” she questioned.

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“Anyone can park there!”

In the comments on the TikTok, the general consensus from commenters around the world was that the parking spots are free for any parent who needs them, including pregnant women, and parents of older children who may benefit from them for other reasons.

“I always thought the pram was just a symbol for ‘people with little kids’,” one commenter said.

“Like the wheelchair symbol is for various disabilities, not just specifically in a wheelchair.”

“I call it parents parking,” said another.

“If you have a child with you then you’re totally entitled to use it!”

Others added that when it comes to the spaces, they’re really free for anyone to use, with no specific legal requirements. This is the case in Australia, where whilst they’re designated for parents, they’re not enforced by law.

“I feel like as long as there’s a carseat you can park there,” one commenter said.

“But they’re just courtesy parking so really anyone can park there.”

“Technically those spots are for convenience and there is no legality attached to them. Definitely fine to use them,” another echoed.

However, some said that whilst this may be the case, people need to be more thoughtful about using them, particularly when you could be taking the space from someone who needs it more. 

“Personally I only use the pram parks if I’m getting the pram out,” one said.

“I get needing the extra space to open doors etc, but the person missing out on that park who is using a pram that day is a harder situation to be in.”

“I think people should really focus on whether they genuinely need the space if they don't’ save it for those that do!” another said.

The poster responded positively to the feedback, adding that she’ll be using the spots more often.

“I honestly felt guilty using these spots when I didn’t actually use my pram!!” the poster responded.

“I will definitely be using them more now.”

Originally published as Mum sparks social media debate over parking etiquette