Have you received a private parking fine from IPC and are wondering whether to pay it or appeal it? This is the right place for you. Each month, over 130,000 people visit our website for advice on fines and parking tickets.
Which? found that unclear rules and various payment methods in private car parks are partly to blame for an increased number of fines.1 So if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the process, don’t worry. This article will provide you with simple and clear information on:
- The role of IPC in parking fines.
- Whether you should pay your parking fine.
- How to appeal against your parking fine.
- Understanding the difference between a fine on private land and public land.
- Tips to help you make a successful appeal.
We know that getting a private parking fine can be frustrating and confusing. But you’re not alone; we are here to offer plenty of helpful tips and examples to guide you through the process.
Not sure what to write in your parking appeal?
The form asks for contact details to deliver your free MoneyNerd template.
Add your notice details, reasons for disputing the charge and relevant evidence.
General information, not legal advice. Follow your notice’s instructions and deadlines; adapt the wording to your circumstances. No outcome is guaranteed.
Did you receive an IPC Parking Fine?
Should You Appeal Against A Parking Charge?
Appeal Process Steps
I know that the appeal process may sound challenging. But don’t worry; I’ve put together this table to help you understand each step you should take. For more information, please read our detailed guide.
| When | Action |
|---|---|
| On receiving a council PCN | Read the notice, keep it, gather evidence and note all payment and challenge deadlines. |
| Windscreen or handed-to-driver PCN | An informal challenge may be available before the Notice to Owner. Early challenge can preserve a discount under the authority’s policy; 14 days is not a universal final appeal deadline. |
| Postal PCN or Notice to Owner | Normally make formal representations within 28 days as stated on the notice. Do not assume there is an extra informal stage. |
| Representations rejected | The Notice of Rejection explains how to appeal to the appropriate independent tribunal, normally within 28 days. |
| Appeal unsuccessful | Pay by the deadline given in the decision or obtain advice on any available review. Further statutory charges can follow if you do neither. |
| Other ticket type | Private parking charges and FPNs use different procedures; follow the actual notice. |
Further guidance: Traffic Penalty Tribunal; Citizens Advice.
What to include in your parking appeal
The form asks for contact details to deliver your free MoneyNerd template.
Include the notice reference, your reasons, supporting evidence and the action you want the issuer to take.
The correct process depends on the notice and where it was issued.
General information, not legal advice. Follow your notice’s instructions and deadlines; adapt the wording to your circumstances. No outcome is guaranteed.
The IPCs Appeals Service
However, its role in private parking enforcement is important.
Tips on making a successful Parking Charge Notice appeal
The key to making a successful Parking Charge Notice appeal is to be honest and follow the correct parking fines appeal process. In my experience, the more proof you have to support an appeal, the better the chance of an appeal being upheld.
I also suggest you use an appeal letter template that sets out exactly how to word a parking ticket challenge.
The sort of evidence I suggest you provide should be:
- A valid ticket for the amount you paid to park
- Photos of road markings and parking signs that were faded, unclear or misleading
- Witness statements if available
- An invoice from a repair garage if you had broken down
Free parking appeal letter template
The form asks for contact details to deliver your free MoneyNerd template.
Explain what happened, why you dispute the charge and include relevant evidence.
General information, not legal advice. Follow your notice’s instructions and deadlines; adapt the wording to your circumstances. No outcome is guaranteed.
What if you don’t pay?
If you don’t pay a Parking Charge Notice, the issuer could instruct a debt collection agency to recover what’s owed for parking violations penalties. Moreover, they could begin legal proceedings and if a judge issues an order to pay, you’ll have no choice but to pay.
A County Court Judgement (CCJ) could be registered on your credit file which stays there for six years.
You’ll have trouble getting any sort of finance until the CCJ expires.
How do you complain about an operator to the IPC?
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IPC Parking Contact Details
Prepare your parking appeal
The form asks for contact details to deliver your free MoneyNerd template.
Replace the examples with your own facts and check the recipient before sending.
General information, not legal advice. Follow your notice’s instructions and deadlines; adapt the wording to your circumstances. No outcome is guaranteed.
References
