By the Pine AI Editorial Team | Updated May 2026 | Reviewed using publicly available legal resources
Fine amounts are set by statute and reviewed periodically. Confirm current amounts with the issuing authority.
The cost of a UK parking ticket depends on three things: whether it's a council PCN or a private notice, where it was issued (London vs. elsewhere), and whether you pay within the 14-day discount window.
Council PCN Amounts (England)
Council PCNs are classified as Band A (minor contraventions) or Band B (more serious). London councils and TfL issue at higher rates than councils outside London.
| Band | Contravention type | London | Outside London |
|---|---|---|---|
| Band A | Minor — overstaying, not displaying a valid ticket | £80 (£40 if paid within 14 days) | £50 (£25 if paid within 14 days) |
| Band B | Major — parking in a restricted street, yellow line, bus stop | £130 (£65 if paid within 14 days) | £70 (£35 if paid within 14 days) |
The 14-day rule: Paying within 14 days of issue gives you a 50% discount. This is the most significant cost-saving action you can take if the ticket is valid.
Common Violations and Their Bands
| Violation | Band |
|---|---|
| Overstaying a paid parking bay | A |
| No valid ticket displayed | A |
| Parked on a single or double yellow line | B |
| Parked on a red route | B |
| Parked in a loading restriction | B |
| Parked blocking a dropped kerb | B |
| Parked in a bus stop or bus lane | B |
| Parked in a disabled bay without a Blue Badge | B |
Private Parking Notices
Private parking operators (APCOA, NCP, ParkingEye, Excel, Smart Parking) set their own charge amounts, regulated under the British Parking Association (BPA) or International Parking Community (IPC) codes of practice.
Typical private notice amounts: £60–£100 (with a 50% discount window, usually 14 days).
Private notices are not council PCNs and carry different legal weight. See APCOA and private parking notices →
How PCNs Escalate If Unpaid
| Stage | What happens | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1–14 | Discount window | 50% of PCN |
| Day 15–28 | Full PCN amount | 100% |
| After 28 days | Notice to Owner issued | 100% |
| 28 days after NtO (if no formal rep) | Charge Certificate issued | 150% |
| After Charge Certificate | Debt registered at Traffic Enforcement Centre | 150% + costs |
| Final stage | Bailiff enforcement | Variable |
A £130 Band B PCN ignored completely can result in over £200 in charges before bailiff fees. The 14-day window is the last opportunity to contain the cost.
Scotland and Northern Ireland
PCN amounts and rules differ slightly in Scotland (issued under different legislation) and Northern Ireland (where NI Direct handles the system).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum fine for a UK parking ticket? For council PCNs in London, Band B is £130 (£65 if paid within 14 days). Outside London, Band B is typically £70 (£35 within 14 days). Private notices are typically capped at £100 under BPA/IPC codes.
Do parking fines go on your record? Council PCNs are civil matters and do not appear on your driving licence or criminal record. However, a County Court Judgement (CCJ) from an unpaid parking debt can affect your credit record.
Can a parking fine be reduced? Yes — by paying within 14 days (50% discount on council PCNs), or by successfully challenging the ticket. Mitigation doesn't reduce the fine directly but may lead to cancellation.