New rules have been announced today, 19 October 2026, giving drivers new rights to challenge unfair private parking charges. These changes are part of a new Private Parking Code of Practice laid in Parliament.
Under the new code, drivers will be guaranteed 5 minutes to decide whether to park and 10 minutes to leave once their parking session ends. Charges will be cancelled on appeal for honest mistakes, such as briefly stopping to check directions, or for issues beyond a driver's control, including medical emergencies, breakdowns, or broken ticket machines.
For minor errors, such as forgetting a parking permit or entering an incorrect vehicle registration, drivers will face a maximum charge of £20 on appeal. The maximum parking charge is also frozen at £100. Operators who do not comply with the code risk losing access to DVLA data.
Additionally, tougher action will be taken against second-hand car dealers who wind back odometers, a practice known as car clocking. This will be added to the official list of banned practices, making it easier for enforcers to act.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated that these changes aim to stop hefty fines for minor errors and deliberate scams. Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Angela Rayner added that the changes mean drivers will get a fairer deal.
The government has also committed to consulting next year on private parking debt recovery fees, including whether to reduce or remove the existing £70 cap. The new Code will apply in England, Scotland, and Wales, and will introduce a fully independent Scrutiny and Oversight Board.