Not parked correctly within the markings of a bay or space (car park)
- Penalty band
- Lower level
- London
- £110 or £90, by charging band
- Outside London
- £50 in most areas, £40 in a few
All amounts are halved if paid within the discount period stated on the notice. London levels have applied since 7 April 2025 (London Councils); levels elsewhere in England are set by SI 2022/71 Schedule 3. Checked 20 September 2026.
Grounds that usually beat a code 86 PCN
- The car park signs did not clearly state the rule you are accused of breaking.
- The pay machine or app failed and you have evidence of the attempt to pay.
- A valid ticket, session or permit covered the stay.
- The statutory 10-minute grace period had not expired.
- The bay markings were faded or ambiguous.
- The PCN details are wrong.
How to challenge it
Council PCNs follow the statutory route: an informal challenge within the discount period for windscreen notices, formal representations within 28 days of the Notice to Owner, then a free appeal to London Tribunals or the Traffic Penalty Tribunal within 28 days of any rejection. Photographs of the location, signs and markings from the driver's viewpoint are the evidence that wins. Use the deadline calculator to see your dates.
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