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
- BPA Code of Practice
- IPC Code of Practice
- 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 — will the appeal still succeed?
A genuine keying error where you clearly paid for the correct session is one of the most commonly cancelled charges, because there was no real loss to the operator. Attach the receipt and explain the mistake plainly.
Draft your appeal now
AppealIQ writes a formal, law-aware letter tailored to your situation and chosen ground. Your first letter each month is free.
Appeal this to a specific operator or council
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.