Challenging a Penalty Charge Notice and making representations

If you have received a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) you can:

You can also view the photographs taken at the time of the contravention. 

You can normally make representations or view photographs within 24 hours of the PCN being issued.

How the process works

PCNs are issued in different ways according to legislation:

  • parking contravention PCN issued in person by a civil enforcement officer (challenge)
  • bus lane contravention PCN issued by post following CCTV evidence
  • parking contravention PCN issued by post following CCTV evidence.

There are slightly different appeal processes for each; you can challenge the PCN in the first two cases above, and make a formal representation for the third.  Please see our pages on the different appeal processes which apply according to how the PCN was issued.

When we receive your communication, it will be logged as a challenge or formal representation depending on how the penalty was issued and how far it has progressed. We will ensure that the case does not progress further and then write to you in due course to let you know the outcome and how much money is due, if any.

If you receive a Charge Certificate, it is too late for you to make a challenge or formal representation.

If you are not satisfied with the outcome of your challenge or formal representation, you may choose to appeal to the independent Parking Adjudicator at the Parking and Traffic Appeals Service.

If you need to pay, there are several PCN payment methods.

The leaflet How we consider your appeal gives more information about how we deal with a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN), the appeal process and how we are likely to deal with your appeal.