Campaigners are calling for a £50 cap on fines imposed by private parking firms, urging government intervention. Labour is seeking to establish a new enforceable code of practice to regulate car park operators, following a previous failed attempt by the Tories. Concerns have been raised by motorists who feel unfairly treated, receiving hefty fines and facing debt collection if they refuse to pay.
Recent analysis by the RAC revealed a record 14.4 million tickets issued by private parking companies in the last 12 months. Additionally, data shows a significant increase in car park management firms requesting driver information from the DVLA to issue fines, rising from 1.9 million in 2012 to 8.4 million in 2019, and 12.8 million in 2024.
Although the industry implemented a parking code of practice last year, applying measures such as a 10-minute grace period and a £100 charge cap, it only affects members of specific associations, with full enforcement expected by December 2026. Consumer group Which? advocates for a maximum fine of £50, clear signage in car parks, and fair consideration of circumstances like medical emergencies or vehicle breakdowns when issuing fines.
The government’s plan for a statutory parking code was withdrawn due to legal challenges from parking firms. Which? also criticizes the automatic imposition of debt recovery fees and calls for an independent appeals service to challenge fines easily. Alex Norris MP emphasized the need for fair treatment of motorists by parking operators, citing difficulties faced by drivers in complying with rules and avoiding escalating costs.
Sue Davies, head of consumer rights policy at Which?, expressed concerns over the lack of consumer protection in private car parks despite industry attempts to improve. The British Parking Association supports the government’s consultation, emphasizing the importance of deterrents to ensure parking spaces are used appropriately. They advocate for retaining the £100 charge cap and the £70 debt resolution fee to discourage rule-breaking and protect responsible motorists.