Blue Badge Scheme
The scheme is designed to help disabled people who have severe mobility problems lead independent lives by knowing that when they reach a destination, either as a drive or passenger, that they will be able to park near to a venue, and therefore have easier access to the services they want to use. It is not to provide free parking.
Orkney Islands Council offers free parking to Blue Badge holders in all our off-street car parks.
A blue badge permits free on-street parking without time restriction in marked bays, on single and double yellow lines without loading restrictions as long as you are parked safely and your badge is valid. Some on-street disabled bays may be time limited so please check the signage.
The Blue Badge parking concessions don’t apply to off-street privately operated car parks, such as supermarket car parks or on privately owned roads, such as those you find at airports. There may, however be special concessions for badge holders in these areas and you should check for signs detailing these.
Parking in any location subject to loading use or restrictions is not allowed and could subject you to a fine. Please refer to your blue badge handbook for guidance on where you can park.
+ Charges
New or renewal blue badge: £20.00
Replacement badge: £13.10
Payment can be made by calling into Orkney Islands Council’s Customer Services team or by telephoning: 01856 873535
+ Using your Blue Badge
Your blue badge must only be displayed if you are travelling in the vehicle as a driver or passenger (if someone is collecting you or dropping off and needs to park at the place where you are being collected or dropped). Further information is available on your rights and responsibilities on the Scottish Government website.
+ Lost or stolen badge
Lost or stolen blue badges should be reported to our Customer Services Team on: 01856 873535
If your badge is less than 3 months from its expiry date you will have to renew your application by reapplying.
+ Returning a Badge
You should return your badge if:
- The badge has expired
- Your medical condition or mobility improves and you are no longer eligible
- A replacement badge has been issued for one that is lost or stolen and the original is found
- The badge becomes damaged or faded and is illegible
- If the badge holder is deceased
+ Misuse
Misuse of a blue badge is an offence and may lead to a £1,000 fine.
Further information is available on your rights and responsibilities on the Scottish Government website.
+ Low Emission Zones
The first of four Low Emission Zones (LEZ) is now being enforced in Scotland. From June 1, 2023, if you are driving in Glasgow’s LEZ then you must have a compliant vehicle or face a penalty. Aberdeen, Dundee and Edinburgh city centre LEZs will follow.
However, there are national exemptions, including for Blue Badge holders. For more information follow the link here: LEZ Information
