If you’ve recently found a parking ticket that’s older than you’d like to admit, you might be wondering whether you’re still technically being chased for it. You might be asking yourself how long you can actually be chased for a parking ticket. The answer is much longer than you think! Today we’re exploring the answer!
How Long Can You be Chased for a Parking Ticket in the UK?
In short, six years.
For a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) issued by a local authority, the enforcement period can last up to six years from the date of the contravention. This is because the debt associated with a PCN is considered a civil debt and falls under the same statute of limitations as other civil debts in the UK, which is six years.
For a Parking Charge Notice (also abbreviated as PCN but issued by private companies for parking on private land), the enforcement period is also typically six years. This is because, like local authority PCNs, these are treated as civil debts. However, private parking companies must follow a specific process to enforce the charge, including taking the matter to court to obtain a County Court Judgement (CCJ) if you do not pay.
It’s important to note that while the statutory limit is six years, it’s always best to address any type of parking ticket promptly, either by paying or appealing, to avoid additional charges or legal action.
BEWARE OF FAKE TICKETS
Sadly, even in today’s world, there are still people that want to make a quick buck at the expense of others, and this doesn’t exclude parking tickets. Some people are using fake parking tickets to trick motorists into paying money they don’t actually owe! These kinds of parking ticket scams are everywhere in the UK, so it’s important to be aware of them. Take the time to learn how to spot a fake parking ticket and also how to spot a parking ticket scam!
Is There a Time Limit to Receive a Parking Ticket?
Yes, there is a time limit for receiving a parking ticket, but it varies depending on who issued it.
For tickets issued by local authorities (Penalty Charge Notices), the typical time frame is 28 days from the date of the violation. However, this period can extend up to six months if the local council faces delays in retrieving your details from the DVLA.
For private parking tickets (Parking Charge Notices), the time limit is different. Under the Protection of Freedoms Act, private operators must issue the ticket within 14 days of the alleged contravention if the ticket is sent by post. If a ticket is left on your vehicle, the operator has an additional 56 days to send a notice to your home address.
When you get a parking ticket through the post, don’t ignore it. Even if it’s from a private company, it’s worth checking if the ticket is valid and whether you should challenge it. Ignoring it could lead to more complications down the line.
What is the Difference Between a Parking Charge Notice and a Penalty Charge Notice?
Understanding the difference between these two notices is crucial. A Parking Charge Notice is issued by private companies when you violate parking rules on private land, such as in a supermarket car park. These fines are essentially “invoices” for breaking the terms of parking on private property. While they are not criminal offenses, ignoring them can lead to court action where the operator may ask a judge to issue a County Court Judgement (CCJ) against you.
On the other hand, a Penalty Charge Notice is issued by local authorities for parking violations in public areas. These are legally enforceable under the Traffic Management Act 2004. If you ignore a Penalty Charge Notice, it can lead to more severe consequences, including court action and additional fines. It’s important to address these notices promptly, either by paying the fine or by starting the appeals process if you believe it was issued in error.
Is a Parking Fine a Fixed Penalty Notice?
No, a Parking Charge Notice or a Penalty Charge Notice is not the same as a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN). An FPN can be issued by the police, local councils, or the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) for more serious offenses, including some driving offenses. While PCNs are for civil offenses, FPNs are typically issued for criminal offenses and serve as an alternative to prosecution in court. Ignoring an FPN can lead to more severe legal consequences.
How Can a Parking Charge Notice Be Enforced?
While a Parking Charge Notice from a private company is not immediately enforceable, ignoring it can escalate the situation. Initially, you may receive reminders and warnings. If you still don’t pay, the private company can pass your details to a debt collection agency, which can add extra costs and stress.
Ultimately, the company may take you to County Court to get a CCJ against you. This can affect your credit score for up to six years, making it harder to get loans, mortgages, and even some jobs. That’s why it’s crucial to either pay the fine or challenge it if you believe it was issued unfairly.
However, keep in mind that sometimes private parking companies will threaten to take you to court but not actually take any action on it. Because a parking ticket is of such low value, they sometimes won’t bother with hassle of recovering it. Don’t let that fool you into thinking they won’t though, as it has happened before!
Source: Money Saving Expert
As you can see from this motorist’s post, a private parking company won’t hesitate to threaten you with court action! That’s why it’s better to address the ticket and either pay the fine or start an appeals process.
Can Bailiffs Contact Me for an Unpaid Parking Ticket?
Before bailiffs can get involved, the court must issue an ‘order of recovery,’ and the 21-day time limit must have passed. Once this period has expired, bailiffs can visit your property, but they must give you at least seven days’ notice before doing so. Even at this stage, you can still appeal or file a ‘late witness statement‘ to temporarily suspend enforcement while your application is reviewed.
You can also request ‘breathing space‘ to seek debt advice, which gives you 60 days free from additional charges and interest. This can help you find a solution without the added pressure of immediate bailiff action!
Can You Challenge a Court Order?
Yes, you can challenge a court order, but you need valid legal grounds.
For instance, you can appeal if you never received the original PCN or ‘notice to owner’ because it was sent to the wrong address. You can also appeal if you lodged your appeal on time but never received a ‘notice of rejection’ or if you have already paid the ticket.
To cancel or change a court order, you need to fill out a form TE9. Make sure to keep a copy for your records. It’s always best to challenge a ticket if you think it’s wrong or unfair, but never ignore it.
How to Challenge a Parking Fine
If you think you have grounds to challenge a parking ticket, you can make an appeal. Remember, you can only appeal against unpaid parking tickets. If you want to save time and write an effective appeal, you can use free templates available online, like our free and easy to use parking ticket letter appeal template.
For a Penalty Charge Notice, you can make an informal appeal within the first 14 days of receiving the ticket. Formal appeals, or “representations”, can be made before the 28 days after the PCN is issued is up. You need to provide reasons why you think the ticket was wrongfully issued, supported by strong evidence. Did you know that there are a handful of parking ticket loopholes that might actually help you find a good reason for appealing? The council usually responds within 56 days. If they don’t, you win the case by default!
For privately issued tickets, the appeal process varies by issuer. Generally, you need to write a letter stating why the Parking Charge Notice should be cancelled, supported by evidence. This can be submitted via post or through the issuer’s online portal. You typically have 28 days to appeal. Much like Parking Charge Notices, the issuing authority then has 56 days to make a decision otherwise you automatically win the case!
Private Parking Ticket fees (MUST READ)
Currently, privately issued Parking Charge Notices can be £100 or more. However, new government rules are set to limit these charges to £50 or less, cutting the cost of PCNs in half. While these changes are not yet in place, they represent a significant shift in how parking fines are regulated, offering some relief to drivers.
Knowing Your Rights When it Comes to Parking Tickets!
Understanding your rights when it comes to parking fines is crucial. Many drivers aren’t aware that they can challenge unfair tickets or that there are strict time limits for issuing these fines. Being informed can save you from unnecessary stress and financial strain. If you ever receive a parking ticket, take the time to understand the nature of the notice, the issuing authority, and the appropriate steps to take.
What Happens if You Ignore a Parking Ticket?
Ignoring a parking ticket can lead to serious consequences. For Penalty Charge Notices, the local authority may increase the fine, send multiple reminders, and eventually take legal action to recover the debt. This can result in additional fees, court costs, and even a County Court Judgement against you, affecting your credit rating.
For Parking Charge Notices from private companies, ignoring the ticket can also lead to escalating actions. The company might pass your details to a debt collection agency, which can add extra charges. If the case goes to court and a CCJ is issued, this can have long-term impacts on your financial health. Always address parking tickets promptly to avoid these outcomes!
Practical Tips for Dealing with Parking Tickets
- Check the Details: Ensure that the ticket has been correctly issued. Mistakes can happen, and incorrect details can be grounds for an appeal.
- Act Quickly: Whether you plan to pay or appeal, doing so within the specified time limits can save you money and hassle.
- Gather Evidence: If you believe the ticket was issued unfairly, collect any evidence that supports your case, such as photographs, witness statements, or receipts.
- Know the Process: Familiarise yourself with the appeal process for both Penalty Charge Notices and Parking Charge Notices. Each has its own procedures and deadlines. Things like whether or not you were granted a grace period could give you a solid reason for appealing!
- Get Advice: If you’re unsure about any aspect of your ticket or the appeal process, seek advice from a lawyer.
Staying Informed About Parking Ticket Changes
It’s important to stay informed about any legislative changes that might affect parking fines. Recent government initiatives aim to make parking fines fairer and more transparent. New rules are expected to reduce the maximum amount that private companies can charge and improve the clarity of parking terms and conditions.
Understanding how long you can be chased for a parking ticket and knowing your rights can help you navigate these situations with confidence. Whether you receive a Penalty Charge Notice from a local authority or a Parking Charge Notice from a private company, addressing the issue promptly and following the correct procedures can save you from
Don’t forget that we’ve create a free and easy to use parking ticket letter template. This will help you create an airtight appeal against your parking ticket!
Not sure you’re in the right place? Confused about your rights? No problem! We have full parking ticket guides that you can browse through! Whether it’s a council issued ticket or a ticket from a private company, we have the information you need!