Drivers and passengers who abuse the Blue Badge scheme in Fife could have their badges confiscated, under new legislation that came into force on Monday.
The Blue Badge scheme provides an essential service for disabled people in Fife.
It allows access to parking bays which are normally closer to work, shops and other community services, helping people with mobility problems to live their lives as fully as they can.
The Scottish Government hopes that by providing additional powers to confiscate badges and cancel lost or stolen badges, people will think twice before misusing them.
Transport minister Derek Mackay said: “Blue Badge misuse is socially unacceptable as it prevents the 228,000 legitimate badge holders across Scotland from accessing the on-street parking concessions to which they are entitled.
“Granting extra powers for local authorities to tackle Blue Badge misuse and confiscate badges that are not valid or are being used illegally by a third party for their own benefit will allow disabled badge holders to access services in the community and lead independent lives.”
Councillor Pat Callaghan said: “I’m saddened the Scottish Government has deemed it necessary to take this action but Fife Council fully supports this campaign.
“We need to stamp out the misuse of Blue Badges.”