H&F Council Makes Blue Badges Digital
Measure aims to protect disabled drivers from theft
Virtual permits mean no physical badge will be displayed. Picture: H&F Council
February 9, 2026
Hammersmith & Fulham Council has introduced a new digital parking permit designed to protect disabled residents from the growing problem of Blue Badge theft. The virtual permit allows Blue Badge holders to park in their home zone without displaying their physical badge, removing one of the key incentives for thieves.
The move comes as London continues to see rising levels of Blue Badge crime. Over the past five years, 35 per cent of badges seized by H&F enforcement teams were found to have been stolen, underlining the financial value of the permits on the black market and the vulnerability of disabled drivers to vehicle break-ins.
Cllr Florian Chevoppe-Verdier, Cabinet Member for Public Realm, said the new system would make everyday life easier and safer for residents.
“Digital Blue Badges will make everyday parking simpler and more reliable for our Disabled residents. There’s no need to display or remember a physical badge at home: the system works automatically, reducing stress and making it easier for people to get on with their day,” he said.
“By removing the need for a visible badge, the scheme also helps protect residents from theft and vehicle break-ins, giving greater peace of mind when parking near home. At the same time, digital badges strengthen our ability to prevent misuse, ensuring the scheme is fair and that support goes to those who genuinely need it. This new approach will benefit our 3,400 Blue Badge holders and supports our commitment to making H&F the best place to live for all residents.”
Blue Badges allow people with disabilities or long-term health conditions that significantly affect their mobility to park closer to the places they need to visit. The council says the virtual permit is the latest step in its ongoing work to tackle Blue Badge fraud and respond directly to residents who asked for better protection for their vehicles.
While the digital permit covers parking in a resident’s home zone, badge holders will still need to display their physical Blue Badge when parking elsewhere in the borough or outside H&F.
To apply for the new virtual permit, residents must:
- hold a valid Blue Badge
- have a full UK driving licence
- provide proof of residence
- show responsibility for the vehicle
Applications can be made via the council’s Blue Badge digital parking permit webpage.
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