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Motorists in parts of the UK may soon face significant fines for sounding their car horns under proposed new Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) rules. Tandridge District Council in Surrey has introduced the proposal following a rise in complaints about driver behaviour in the area.
The plans suggest that “excessive horn honking” could become a punishable offence, although the exact definition has not yet been finalised. If approved, drivers could be fined up to £100 for repeatedly or unnecessarily using their horns, with a reduced £60 penalty for early payment.
The council explained that the PSPO was proposed after ongoing reports of vehicles—including cars, lorries, mopeds and e-scooters—mounting and parking on pavements in Caterham Valley. A six-week public consultation has already taken place, covering areas such as parts of Croydon Road and Godstone Road, Station Avenue, and the service road near the Waitrose and Lidl car parks. The behaviour has been described as persistent and particularly dangerous for pedestrians.
Local business owner Paula Nicholson has voiced strong support for the measures, stating that buses and nearby businesses are often responsible for repeated horn use when bus stops are blocked, causing traffic disruption. However, pet shop employee Lindsey Wells criticised the proposals, arguing that horn use is sometimes necessary for safety and that the rules are unnecessary.
Tandridge District Council said it cannot predict the committee’s final decision. If the proposal moves forward, a further three-month period will be used to clearly define the PSPO’s terms, including what qualifies as excessive horn honking. The council stressed that any enforcement would be clearly defined and proportionate.
The proposal will be reviewed by both Tandridge District Council and Surrey County Council before a final decision is made.
