Drivers will be given new rights to challenge private parking charges under rules announced by Prime Minister Andy Burnham. The changes follow repeated concerns from motorists that penalties issued by private providers were too harsh.
The new rules will introduce a guaranteed five-minute period for drivers to decide whether to park and a 10-minute window to leave without facing a penalty. Charges will also be cancelled for issues beyond a driver's control, such as vehicle breakdowns, medical emergencies, or broken ticket machines.
For honest mistakes like forgetting a parking permit or entering the wrong vehicle registration, maximum charges on appeal will be £20. The maximum parking charge will remain at £100, consistent with the existing private parking Code of Practice. Operators who do not comply risk losing access to DVLA data.
RAC analysis of government data indicates that a record 17 million private parking tickets were issued in 2025/2026, a 17% increase from the previous year. The British Parking Association welcomed the changes, noting that many principles are already reflected in their voluntary Code of Practice. The new Code will apply in England, Scotland, and Wales.