I paid but still got a parking ticket
You paid for parking (or used the app) but were still issued a charge - usually a mistyped registration or a delayed payment.
What the rules say
- Private Parking Single Code of Practice (Appeals Charter)
- Consumer Rights Act 2015
How to appeal, step by step
- 1
Find your proof of payment
Locate the bank/card statement line, the parking-app receipt or confirmation email, or the pay-and-display ticket. The amount, time and location are what matter.
- 2
Check for a keying error
A single wrong character in your registration is the most common cause. If you paid for the right session but typed the plate wrong, say so and attach the receipt - it is plainly a genuine mistake, not an attempt to avoid paying.
- 3
Appeal on the "payment made" ground
State clearly that valid payment was made for the time you were parked, quote the transaction reference, and attach the evidence. Do not pay the charge while appealing.
- 4
Escalate if rejected
A private operator must point you to POPLA or the IAS; a council must point you to the relevant tribunal. Re-submit the same proof of payment at the second stage.
Frequently asked questions
I paid by app - does that count as proof?
Yes. A parking-app receipt or confirmation email is strong evidence: it shows the amount, the time window and usually the location or zone code. Screenshot it and include the transaction reference.
I typed my registration wrong - can I still appeal?
Yes. For a private charge, the Appeals Charter in the Single Code of Practice says a minor keying error (such as 0 for O, or 1 for I) where you paid the tariff should be cancelled, and a major one (such as entering another car’s registration) should be reduced to £20 if paid within 14 days. For a council PCN, show the payment matches your session and explain the mistake. Either way, attach the receipt.
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Other reasons to appeal
AppealIQ generates draft letters to assist your appeal. It is not legal advice - always review the letter and use the official appeal channel printed on your notice. Whether a charge is a private Parking Charge Notice or a statutory council Penalty Charge Notice changes the process; pick the matching guide on the appeal hub.