Frequently Asked Questions

If I submit a challenge, will I lose the opportunity to pay at the discounted charge?

No, providing the challenge is RECEIVED within 14 days of the Penalty Charge Notice issue date, the option to pay at the discounted rate will be held until a decision is made.

How do I challenge/ the attendant advised me to ring you?

The parking attendant cannot cancel a notice once issued you need to put your points in writing or complete the online informal challenge on the website including your name, address and Penalty Charge Notice number. Also please send copies of evidence to support the facts.Please DO NOT send originals and keep a copy of all correspondence sent. (Further information on challenging a PCN)

How long will it be before I receive a reply?

Generally within 21 days, however if you have not had a response within this time, please telephone the enquires number on the reverse of the Penalty Charge Notice.

Who is responsible for paying the charge?

The owner/keeper of the vehicle is responsible and will be pursued in any further action. (Further Owner Liability Information)

I no longer own this vehicle, why do you keep writing to me?

You are still the registered owner/keeper with the DVLA and you need to inform them of when and who you sold the vehicle to. The registered owner/keeper is responsible for any Penalty Charge Notice's issued to the vehicle.

I did not receive a Penalty Charge Notice, but have received a Notice to Owner requesting that I pay for a Penalty Charge Notice. Can I pay the discounted rate?

No. The discounted sum can only be paid within 14 days of the contravention. The Penalty Charge Notice was issued and we can only assume that a member of the public has removed it. You will need to make a representation to that effect. (Further information on challenging a PCN)

Why did I get a ticket when I left a note in the car advising I was loading or it had broken down?

A note is not a valid permit to park and you would need to send a copy of any evidence to support the reason your vehicle was there ie, breakdown recovery receipt, or delivery note. (Further information on challenging a PCN)

Can I come to your office to discuss my dispute?

No. Challenges to the issuing of a Penalty Charge Notice can only be dealt with in writing. You will receive a written response. (Further information on challenging a PCN)

Can I sort this dispute over the telephone?

No. You must write, stating the grounds of your dispute. You may also complete the online challenge form via the website. (Further information on challenging a PCN)

You have rejected my challenge. I don’t agree, what happens now?

The council will send you a Notice to Owner (NtO) after 28 days. You can than make a formal representation. The Notice to Owner will tell you how and on what grounds you may dispute a PCN. If the council accepts your dispute the case will be closed and this will be confirmed in writing. If it doesn’t accept your dispute, it will issue you with a Notice of Rejection. This will tell you must either pay within 28 days or appeal to the independent adjudicator. The council will send you the necessary forms. (Further information on challenging a PCN)

(Once Notice to Owner received) I didn’t own this vehicle at the time / never owned it.

You must make a formal representation and provide written evidence of disposal/acquisition and details of the actual owner. If you never owned the vehicle you must provide written evidence from the DVLA. If you have no written evidence you may wish to seek legal advice in regard to swearing an affidavit.

I have already paid this Penalty Charge Notice and you have sent me an Notice to Owner, Charge Certificate etc.

Please write to us with details and evidence. Please provide proof of payment and/or a copy of both sides of your cheque/postal order if paid by this method.

(Representation rejected) I don’t agree with your decision. What can I do?

You may appeal to the independent adjudicator. Complete the form sent to you and send this to TPT. You can request a personal hearing near your home or place of work. TPT will write to you. (More information on the adjudication process)

I have received a Charge Certificate, but didn’t receive the Notice to Owner. Can I dispute the Penalty?

No. The Notice to Owner was sent to the same address and it’s too late now. The Council will register the debt at the Traffic Enforcement Centre (TEC) and send you the court order. Please read these carefully. You can then make a Statutory Declaration if you didn't receive the Notice to Owner. The court papers will explain the grounds and the procedures. The declaration must be sworn as set out in the papers.

I have received the court order but want to dispute the penalty now. Can I do this?

No. Please read the court papers carefully. You can make a Statutory Declaration if the grounds shown in the court papers apply. This may enable you to have the opportunity of presenting your case. You can’t make a declaration if none of the grounds apply.

I’ve been contacted by the Bailiffs. Can I dispute the Penalty now?

No, it’s too late. Please speak directly to the Bailiff or seek legal advice or contact the Citizens Advice Bureau

Frequently Asked Questions

further information