Parking enforcement

Penalty Notice Charges - Beware of Scams

We are aware that residents are receiving fraudulent text messages demanding payment for Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs). These messages are not from us. We never request payment by text message. Please do not click any links or provide personal information. If you’re unsure about a message, contact us directly on 01375413871.

Why we issue parking penalty charge notices

Penalty charge notices (PCNs) – also called 'parking fines' – are issued when a motorist parks a vehicle in a way that breaks restrictions.

When a PCN is issued, it will include a description of the restriction that has been broken.

PCNs will generally be issued for the following reasons:

  • parking in areas where waiting or loading restrictions are in force – restrictions normally apply to the entire width of the road, including verges and footways
  • parking at a pay-and-display ticket machine space without paying the correct amount and clearly displaying the ticket
  • parking for longer than the period for which you have paid
  • returning to the same parking place within the prescribed time
  • parking in a specially reserved bay – for example, a loading place, a disabled persons parking bay, a residents parking bay or a taxi rank – without authorisation
  • parking at a bus stop during prohibited hours
  • stopping in a restricted area outside a school

Read how to: