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We undertake on-street parking enforcement of Traffic Regulation Orders. The police enforce obstructive parking and moving traffic offences.

With civil parking enforcement we aim to tackle traffic caused by illegal and inconsiderate parking. This causes problems whether you’re driving, cycling, on public transport or on foot. We also have a responsibility to keep our footpaths and pavements safe to use
We want to encourage sensible and safe parking across the borough. This will make our towns safer for drivers and pedestrians and keep traffic flowing. In turn this will make them more attractive to businesses and visitors. It will also improve our streets for public transport, cyclists and emergency services. And by keeping traffic moving we will reduce pollution and improve air quality.

Report a parking problem

If you would like to report a problem with parking then please contact us. Please ensure that you include:

  • Details of the problem
  • The location of the problem
  • Your contact details so that we can get back to you.

What does Civil Parking Enforcement (CPE) mean?

We are responsible for on-street parking enforcement. Parking offences are no longer criminal offences. They are now handled as civil contraventions.

How is enforcement done

Our civil enforcement officers (CEOs) patrol all the borough’s streets and council-owned car parks where parking restrictions or Traffic Regulation Orders (TRO) are in place.

CCTV vehicle enforcement

We use camera-equipped cars to monitor parking. These check around schools and bus stops where drivers are putting the safety of others at risk and causing congestion.

What will I be fined if I park incorrectly?

In the strictest terms you will not be “fined” at all. Under the new system all offences will be civil ones and a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) will be issued. These replace the current Fixed Penalty Notice and Excess Charge Notice.

How much will a Penalty Charge Notice cost?

The Penalty Charge Notice will be either £50 or £70 depending upon the type of contravention. These are defined in the Traffic Management Act 2004 and should be paid within 28 days. If it is paid within 14 days it is reduced by 50% to £25 or £35.

How and where can I pay my Penalty Charge Notice?

Details are provided on the back of the notice.
Further information, including online payment facility, is available on our Pay your parking fine page.

How do I appeal my Penalty Charge Notice

You can ‘challenge’ the issue of a Penalty Charge Notice by contacting the our Parking Management Team in writing. Information on how to do this is on the back of the notice.

On street parking - know your restrictions

The best way to avoid a Penalty Charge Notice is to know your restrictions and where you can and cannot park. All parking restrictions require a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO). They are installed to improve road safety and reduce congestion. You can view Traffic Regulation Orders online. This includes links to car park tariffs and limited waiting restriction times.

Further information - useful documents and leaflets