Reasons for receiving a parking fine
Reasons for receiving a parking fine
Find out why you received a parking fine, also known as a Penalty Charge Notice.
We issue Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) when we believe you have not followed parking rules. When you use any of our on-street or off-street parking, you agree to park responsibly.
The pay and display machines contain notices which explain the rules.
View the current traffic regulation orders for waiting, loading and parking.
Grace periods for parking
If your parking is causing a danger to others, a Penalty Charge Notice can be issued instantly.
A mandatory observation period must be given for other offences. The Civil Enforcement Officer must stay near the vehicle to ensure an offence is being committed. For example, a parking disc has not been displayed.
Parking offences such as 'overstay' have a mandatory 10 minute 'grace period' before a fine can be issued. This is different from the observation period.
The grace period applies when a vehicle parked legally becomes illegally parked, such as for overstaying a time limit or an expired Pay and Display ticket or clock/disk.
Full list of parking offences and observation periods (PDF).
Parking fine costs
The cost varies depending on the offence:
| Grade of offence | Fine | Issued for |
| High | £70 | Parking on double yellow lines |
| Low | £50 | Not displaying a pay and display ticket |
Fines will be reduced by 50% if paid within 14 days of the issue date.
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