Private parking fines have hit a record high, with almost 41,000 penalty charge notices (PCNs) issued daily in 2024, according to analysis by the RAC Foundation. This marks a sharp rise from about 24,000 a day five years ago, fuelling growing anger among drivers over aggressive enforcement practices.
A recent case that went viral involved Rosey Hudson, a Leicestershire driver who faced court action for owing nearly £2,000 after being unable to pay within a five-minute window at a Derby car park. She paid the full daily rate, but operator Excel Parking issued 10 PCNs, which snowballed with debt recovery fees. Despite Excel dropping the claim, the case reignited the debate over fairness.
An RAC survey found 55% of motorists think enforcement policies are too heavy-handed, and 78% believe firms are solely interested in making money. Frustration is mounting over the lack of an official private parking code of practice, despite legislation passed five years ago. A government-backed code introduced in 2022, which included a £50 cap and a ban on rip-off fees, was withdrawn after legal challenges.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government says it is 'determined to drive up standards' and will set out further details soon. In the meantime, trade bodies the British Parking Association and International Parking Community launched their own code last year, but the RAC and AA argue it is insufficient. The RAC's Simon Williams called for a government-backed cap on fines and debt recovery fees, along with a truly independent appeals system.
