If you have received a parking fine (also known as a Penalty Charge Notice, or PCN) from the council, you have two options: pay the fine or appeal it if you believe it was issued incorrectly.
How to Pay a Parking Fine
You can pay your parking fine quickly and securely using one of the following methods:
1. Online Payment
The easiest way to pay your parking fine is online. To do so, you'll need the Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) number found on your ticket, as well as your vehicle registration number.
Simply visit our Online Payment Portal, enter your details, and follow the instructions to complete your payment.
2. By Telephone
You can pay over the phone using a credit or debit card by calling our automated payment line at 01234 567890. Have your PCN number and vehicle registration details ready when you call.
3. By Post
You may also pay by post. Please make cheques or postal orders payable to us and include your PCN number and vehicle registration on the back.
Please note, we do not accept cash by post. Payments must reach us within 28 days from the date of issue to avoid additional charges.
Discounts for Early Payment
If you pay your parking fine within 14 days of the PCN being issued, you are entitled to a 50% discount. After this period, the full amount will be payable. Be sure to check the issue date on your notice to take advantage of the discount.
How to Appeal a Parking Fine
If you believe your parking fine was issued in error, you can challenge it by submitting an appeal.
1. Informal Challenge
If you’ve received a parking fine on your windscreen, you can make an informal challenge within 14 days. You can submit your challenge by:
- Online: Visit our Appeal Portal and follow the steps to submit your evidence and reasons for challenging the PCN.
- By Post: Write to us, providing your PCN number, vehicle registration, and reasons for the appeal. Be sure to include any evidence, such as photos or documents.
We will review your challenge and respond within 21 days.
2. Formal Representation
If your informal challenge is rejected or if you’ve received a Notice to Owner (NTO) in the post, you can make a formal representation. You must do this within 28 days of receiving the NTO.
- Online: Submit your formal representation through the Appeal Portal.
- By Post: Write to us, including the PCN number, vehicle registration, and any supporting evidence.
If your formal representation is rejected, you will receive a letter explaining why, along with information on how to take your appeal further.
3. Appealing to the Independent Adjudicator
If your formal representation is unsuccessful, you can appeal to the Traffic Penalty Tribunal. Details on how to appeal will be provided in the rejection letter.
What Happens if You Don’t Pay or Appeal?
If you do not pay or challenge the parking fine within 28 days, the council may increase the charge, and further enforcement action may be taken. This could result in additional fees and legal action.
For further assistance, please contact our parking services team on 01234 567890