Clamp Down On Private Parking Operators

Published Date: 16th Feb 2022

The government has introduced new ‘Parking Code of Practise’ laws designed to target private parking firms who have been hitting motorists hard with extortionate fines in some cases.

Some of the measures include a cap of £50 on parking fines, although Londoners won’t be happy to hear that this may not apply to them. There will also be a 50% discount for early payment, however for some more serious infringements there could still be a fine of up to £100.

Other measures include a ban on penalty charges from associated debt collectors and a 10-minute grace period before a non-payment of parking fine can be issued. The government has also outlined new rules to prevent what is described as the use of ‘pseudo-legal’ language to intimidate drivers into coughing up payment for fines.

One of the most common complaints from drivers who have fallen foul of dubious private parking operators, is lack of clear signage and information, the government bill has addressed this too.

Under the new rules private parking firms will need to provide clear signage that outlines any parking restrictions and how an individual can appeal a parking fine.

The new measures are sure to be welcomed by motorists, a recent RAC survey showed that almost three quarters thought the private parking industry needed more stringent regulations.