Parked for longer than permitted (code 30)
Contravention code 30 - "Parked for longer than permitted" - is one of the standard parking contraventions that councils enforce under the Traffic Management Act 2004. Issued for overstaying a free, time-limited bay - for example a "1 hour, no return" or limited-waiting/disc bay. A council PCN is a statutory civil penalty, not a private invoice, so it must be challenged through the proper channel within the deadlines - but codes are misapplied more often than drivers expect, and a rejected challenge can be taken, free, to an independent adjudicator.
- Contravention code
- 30
- What it is
- Parked for longer than permitted
- Category
- Parking contravention
- Penalty level
- Lower-level
- Where it applies
- On-street, by a civil enforcement officer or camera
- Typical penalty
- £110/£90 in London, around £50 elsewhere - halved if you pay within 14 days
- Appeal route
- Challenge the council → Notice to Owner → London Tribunals (London) or the Traffic Penalty Tribunal (England & Wales)
Councils may word code 30 slightly differently. The code and the evidence on your notice are what define the alleged contravention - always use the official channel and reference printed on it.
Grounds for challenging a code 30 PCN
Pick the statutory ground that genuinely fits your situation - including the ones below that are specific to code 30.
- The contravention did not occur - for example you were parked or driving lawfully, a valid ticket, permit or exemption applied, or the restriction was not in force at that time.
- The signs, road markings or the Traffic Regulation Order did not comply with the regulations (TSRGD), so the restriction was not lawfully indicated.
- There was a procedural error - the PCN, the Notice to Owner, or the statutory wording or timing was defective.
- You were not the owner/keeper when it was issued, the vehicle had been taken without consent, or you are a hire firm with a valid hiring agreement.
- The penalty exceeded the amount applicable in the circumstances, or there are compelling mitigating circumstances the authority should consider.
- You were within the permitted time - challenge the recorded observation times or photos.
- In England, the overstay was 10 minutes or less - within the statutory grace period for limited-waiting bays - or the maximum-stay signage was unclear.
How to appeal, step by step
- 1
Match your evidence to code 30
Pick the ground that genuinely fits "Parked for longer than permitted" and collect proof - sign and marking photos, permit, ticket or the camera images.
- 2
Challenge within 14 days, then make formal representations
An early challenge protects the 50% discount; if a Notice to Owner follows, respond on a statutory ground within 28 days.
- 3
Appeal free to the tribunal if rejected
London Tribunals in London, the Traffic Penalty Tribunal elsewhere in England & Wales - you do not pay first.
Code 30 PCNs - frequently asked questions
What does PCN contravention code 30 mean?
Code 30 is the national civil-enforcement code for "Parked for longer than permitted" - a parking contravention under the Traffic Management Act 2004. Your council may word it slightly differently, so always go by the code and the evidence printed on your own notice. The code on your notice, together with the camera images or the enforcement officer's observation, is what defines the alleged contravention.
How much is a code 30 PCN, and is there a discount?
The penalty is £110 in inner London (Band A) or £90 in outer London (Band B), and typically around £50 elsewhere in England. Most councils freeze the 50% discount while they consider a challenge made within the first 14 days - so challenge promptly rather than paying if you believe the PCN is wrong.
Can I appeal a code 30 PCN?
Yes. Challenge it with the council first - informally and as soon as possible. If that is rejected and a Notice to Owner is served, make formal representations within 28 days. If those are rejected too, you can appeal for free to an independent adjudicator - London Tribunals in London, or the Traffic Penalty Tribunal elsewhere in England & Wales - and you do not have to pay the penalty before the tribunal decides.
Can AppealIQ write my code 30 appeal letter?
Yes. Enter your PCN details and the ground that genuinely fits, and AppealIQ drafts a formal, statute-aware challenge letter you can send to the council or use at the tribunal. Your first letter each calendar month is free; after that, extra letters are £2.99 each, paid once - there is no subscription.
Draft your code 30 appeal now
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Appealing for a specific reason?
Nearby contravention codes
Appeal a council PCN
Code 30 can be issued by any council in England & Wales. Start from your area:
Related reading
Not sure which council or operator issued it? Browse our guides by council, operator and appeal reason.
Not legal advice. A council PCN is a statutory penalty - never ignore it; use the channel and deadlines printed on your notice.