How to appeal to Traffic Penalty Tribunal
The Traffic Penalty Tribunal (TPT) is the free, independent tribunal that decides appeals against council PCNs in England outside London and in Wales. You reach it only after the statutory stages: an informal challenge, then a Notice to Owner, then formal representations, then a Notice of Rejection — which must tell you how to appeal to the TPT. An independent adjudicator then decides, and you do not pay the penalty first.
- Appeals body
- Traffic Penalty Tribunal (TPT)
- Type
- Statutory council PCN tribunal
- Who it covers
- Appeals against statutory council Penalty Charge Notices (parking, bus lane and moving-traffic) in England outside London, and in Wales — plus charges such as Dart Charge (Dartford Crossing), the Mersey Gateway and some Clean Air Zone penalties.
- Time limit
- 28 days from the council’s Notice of Rejection
- Cost
- Free; independent of the council
- Official website
- www.trafficpenaltytribunal.gov.uk
The TPT covers England outside London and Wales. London PCNs go to London Tribunals. Always follow the exact route and deadline printed on your rejection notice.
How to appeal to Traffic Penalty Tribunal, step by step
- 1
Challenge the council and make formal representations
Challenge the PCN early, and if a Notice to Owner is served, make formal representations on a statutory ground within 28 days.
- 2
Wait for the Notice of Rejection
If the council rejects your representations it issues a Notice of Rejection, which must explain how to appeal to the Traffic Penalty Tribunal and give you the deadline.
- 3
Register your appeal within 28 days
Appeal online at trafficpenaltytribunal.gov.uk within 28 days, attaching your evidence and stating your ground clearly.
- 4
Choose how your appeal is decided
You can have it decided on the papers, by phone, or by video — whichever suits you. The council files its case and you can respond.
- 5
Await the adjudicator’s decision
An independent, legally-qualified adjudicator decides. The decision is binding; if you win, the PCN is cancelled.
Traffic Penalty Tribunal appeals — frequently asked questions
Is the Traffic Penalty Tribunal free?
Yes. The TPT is free to use and independent of the council. You do not have to pay the penalty before your appeal is decided.
When can I appeal to the TPT?
Only after the council has rejected your formal representations and issued a Notice of Rejection. You then have 28 days to appeal. You cannot go straight to the tribunal before the council stages.
What can I appeal on?
The statutory grounds — the contravention did not occur, the signs/markings or traffic order were non-compliant, a procedural error, you were not the owner, the penalty exceeded the amount applicable, or there are compelling mitigating circumstances.
Does the TPT cover London?
No. London borough and Transport for London PCNs go to London Tribunals (the Environment and Traffic Adjudicators) instead.
Draft your Traffic Penalty Tribunal appeal now
AppealIQ writes a formal, well-structured appeal you can submit to Traffic Penalty Tribunal. Your first letter each month is free.
Councils that appeal here
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AppealIQ generates draft letters to assist your appeal. It is not legal advice — always review the letter and use the official appeal channel and deadline printed on your notice.