Campaigners are urging the government to set a £50 cap on fines imposed by private parking firms. Labour is seeking input on a new legally enforceable code of conduct for car park operators, following the abandonment of a previous effort by the Tories. Currently, the industry self-regulates, sparking outrage among motorists who feel unfairly targeted by operators issuing substantial fines and pursuing non-paying individuals through debt collectors.
A recent study by the RAC revealed a surge in private parking firms issuing a record 14.4 million tickets to drivers in the past year. Government data also shows a significant rise in car park management companies requesting vehicle owner details from the DVLA to issue fines, escalating from 1.9 million in 2012 to 8.4 million in 2019, and 12.8 million in 2024.
Although the industry introduced its parking code of practice last year, featuring improvements like a 10-minute grace period, clearer signage, and a £100 charge limit, it only applies to specific associations and some provisions won’t take effect until late 2026. Consumer group Which? advocates for capping fines at £50, mandatory clear signage in car parks, and considerations for exceptional circumstances like medical emergencies or vehicle breakdowns when issuing fines.
The Conservative government’s attempt to implement a statutory parking code was halted due to legal challenges from parking firms. Which? also criticizes the automatic imposition of debt recovery fees by parking companies, which can add £70 to fines. They call for a single appeals service to simplify challenging fines believed to be unjustly issued.
Alex Norris MP emphasized the importance of the private parking industry while acknowledging reports of operator misconduct causing difficulties for motorists and leading to escalating costs. Sue Davies from Which? voiced concerns about the inconsistent rules in private car parks that often result in unfair parking charges and highlighted the inadequacy of the industry’s self-regulated Code of Practice to protect consumers.
The British Parking Association expressed support for the government’s consultation, emphasizing the need for a fair and efficient system for all road users. They argue that reducing the parking charge cap could incentivize rule-breaking, stating that maintaining the £100 limit, along with the £70 debt resolution fee, is crucial to deter misconduct and ensure parking spaces are used appropriately.