How much is a parking fine?

When driving in urban areas or city centres, one of the most annoying things for drivers is parking fines. Knowing how much a parking fine and why they come can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and ensure that you comply with local parking regulations.

Here's what you need to know about parking fines, how much they can cost, and how to avoid them.

What are parking fines?

Parking fines, often issued as Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) in the UK, are penalties imposed on drivers who violate parking regulations. These regulations can include parking in restricted areas, overstaying time limits, or failing to display a valid parking ticket.

When are parking fines issued in the UK?

1. Parking in restricted areas

Parking fines in the UK are commonly issued when a vehicle is parked in restricted areas. These restrictions are typically marked by signs or road markings and may include:

• Double yellow lines: Parking on double yellow lines is prohibited at all times unless signs indicate otherwise. These lines are often used in areas where parking would obstruct traffic flow or pose a danger.
• Single yellow lines: Parking on single yellow lines is generally prohibited during certain hours, which will be indicated by nearby signage. Outside of these hours, parking may be allowed.
• Red routes: In some cities, like London, red routes are designated as areas where stopping is highly restricted to ensure smooth traffic flow. Parking on a red route during restricted hours can lead to significant fines.

2. Overstaying time limits

Parking fines can also be issued when a driver overstays the time limit for a parking spot. This commonly occurs in:

• Pay-and-display areas: In pay-and-display zones, drivers must pay for a specific amount of time. If the vehicle remains parked after the time has expired, a fine may be issued.
• Timed parking zones: Some areas have free parking but only for a limited duration (e.g., 30 minutes or 1 hour). Staying beyond this allowed period can result in a fine.
• Parking metres: Parking metres have set time limits, and overstaying the paid-for period can trigger a fine.

3. Failing to display a valid parking ticket or permit

Failure to display a valid parking ticket or permit can lead to fines, even if the driver has paid for parking. Common scenarios include:

• Pay-and-display tickets: The ticket must be clearly displayed on the dashboard or window. If the ticket is not visible or incorrectly displayed, enforcement officers may issue a fine.
• Residential parking permits: In residential areas where permits are required, failing to display a valid permit can result in fines. This rule helps ensure that residents have access to parking in their neighbourhoods.
• Disabled parking permits (blue badges): Misusing a blue badge or parking in a disabled bay without displaying the badge can lead to hefty fines.

4. Parking in unauthorised or prohibited spaces

Parking fines are also issued when vehicles are parked in spaces that are specifically marked as unauthorised or prohibited, including:

• Bus stops and taxi ranks: Parking in areas reserved for buses or taxis can obstruct these services and lead to fines.
• Loading bays: Loading bays are designated for the use of goods vehicles loading or unloading goods. Unauthorised parking in these areas, even for short periods, can result in fines.
• Pedestrian crossings and zigzag lines: Parking on or near pedestrian crossings, especially on zigzag lines, is illegal and can lead to fines. This is enforced to ensure pedestrian safety and maintain clear visibility for drivers.

5. Obstructing access or traffic flow

Parking in a manner that obstructs access or creates a hazard for other road users is another common reason for fines. This includes:

• Blocking driveways: Parking in front of residential or commercial driveways, thereby blocking access, can result in fines. Residents often report such violations to local authorities.
• Obstructing emergency access: Parking in a way that obstructs emergency vehicle access, such as in front of fire hydrants or emergency exits, is prohibited and can result in substantial fines.
• Double parking: Double parking, where a vehicle is parked parallel to a car already parked at the kerb, obstructs traffic flow and can result in fines.

6. Parking in designated spaces without authorisation

Certain parking spaces are reserved for specific types of vehicles or users, and fines can be issued for unauthorised use, such as:

• Disabled bays: Parking in a disabled bay without displaying a valid Blue Badge can incur maximum fines. These spaces are reserved for disabled drivers to ensure accessibility.
• Electric vehicle charging bays: As electric vehicle use grows, many areas have designated charging bays. Parking in these spots without using the charging facilities, or parking a non-electric vehicle, can lead to fines.
• Car club bays: Some urban areas have dedicated parking spaces for car-sharing services. Unauthorised parking in these bays can result in fines.

7. Violating temporary parking restrictions

Temporary parking restrictions are often put in place for events, roadworks, or emergencies. Drivers must be aware of:

• Event day restrictions: During large events, temporary parking restrictions may be enforced to manage traffic flow and ensure safety. Fines can be issued for violations.
• Roadworks: When roadworks are in progress, temporary no-parking signs may be posted. Ignoring these signs can lead to fines.
• Emergency situations: In emergencies, authorities may impose temporary parking bans to clear access for emergency vehicles. Parking in these areas during such times can lead to fines.

8. Use of unauthorised payment methods

Some fines are issued for using unauthorised payment methods, which may include:

• Cash payment areas: In some areas, cash payments are no longer accepted, and fines may be issued for using cash instead of approved electronic methods.
• Invalid payment apps: Not all parking areas accept all parking apps. While there are initiatives being rolled out across the UK to help mitigate this so you can use your parking app of choice such as the National Parking Platform, using an app not recognised by the local authority may lead to fines.

How much can a parking fine cost?

The cost of a parking fine can vary significantly depending on the severity of the violation, the location, and the local council's policies. Generally, parking fines in the UK range from £50 to £130. However, the actual amount you pay could be lower if you settle the fine quickly.

Common PCN costs:

1. Minor violations:some text
   • Parking in a restricted area or overstaying the time limit typically results in fines between £50 and £80.
   • Fines for failing to display a valid parking ticket can also fall within this range.
2. More severe violations:some text
   • Parking on a double yellow line, in a bus lane, or obstructing emergency access can lead to fines up to £130.
   • Parking in disabled bays without a blue badge usually incurs the maximum fine.

Can you reduce the cost of a parking fine?

Yes, many local councils offer a discount on parking fines if they are paid within a specific timeframe. This is often within 14 days of receiving the notice, and the discount can be up to 50% of the original fine. For example, a £60 fine could be reduced to £30 if paid promptly.

Sometimes, if you think that you were incorrectly given the parking fine, you can argue it and if the court takes your side then you don’t need to pay anything. However if the courts rule against you then usually it will be after 14 days and you will have to pay the larger fine.

What happens if you don’t pay a parking fine?

Failing to pay a parking fine can lead to more severe consequences, including increased fines and legal action. Here's what to expect if you ignore a PCN:

1. Increased fines: The initial fine will typically increase if not paid within the designated period. This could double the original amount.
2. Court proceedings: Continued failure to pay can result in the matter being taken to court, leading to a possible court order and additional costs.
3. Enforcement action: In extreme cases, unpaid fines can result in bailiffs being instructed to recover the debt, which could involve seizing assets.

How to avoid parking fines

To avoid parking fines, it’s essential to be vigilant and follow parking regulations. Here are some tips:

1. Read signs carefully: Always check for signs indicating parking restrictions, including time limits and designated areas.
2. Use parking apps: Parking apps like JustPark can help you find available parking spots and provide information on restrictions.
3. Check time limits: Be aware of how long you’re allowed to park in a spot, and set reminders to avoid overstaying.
4. Know local rules: Different areas may have varying rules, so it’s important to familiarise yourself with local parking regulations, especially in new or unfamiliar areas.

What about parking fines on private land?

Parking on private land, such as in a supermarket car park or retail complex, can also result in fines, known as Parking Charge Notices. These are different from Penalty Charge Notices issued by councils and are typically enforced by private companies. While the fine amounts can be similar, the legal process for disputing or appealing them differs.

What should I do if I’ve been issued a PCN in relation to a JustPark booking?

Firstly, it’s important to distinguish that JustPark does not issue parking fines under any circumstances as we aren’t a parking authority that has jurisdiction on the issue of penalty charge notices, and cannot cancel them directly.

There are a number of important things to consider when looking at a PCN:

• Was I parked at the right location?

• Was the booking at the correct time and date?

• Was the booking made using the correct vehicle registration number?

You can get a full breakdown of suggested steps on our Help Centre page on PCN charges. Depending on the outcome, you can either choose to appeal the fine, or proceed with payment. The JustPark support team at help@justpark.com is always available to assist in helping you determine the cause of the PCN if this is unclear.