New car parking laws from October mean it will be harder to get fined
New car parking laws from October 1 will see private car park firms offer a 10 minute 'grace period' as part of major changes on parking fines. These new rules will relax parking restrictions in private car parks from October this year.
The British Parking Association (BPA) and the International Parking Community (IPC) have published a new Code of Practice for private car parks. Under this new code, private car parks must now allow a 10-minute grace period for drivers before issuing any fines.
Andrew Pester, BPA Chief Executive said: “We are delighted to release a single sector Code across our private parking sector. This is a key milestone as we work closely with the government, consumer bodies and others to deliver fairer and more consistent parking standards for motorists.
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"We will continue to push for a positive outcome for all.” Will Hurley, IPC Chief Executive Officer said: “This new Code will create positive change across the UK, enhancing the protection of the most vulnerable in society, whilst creating consistency and clarity for motorists and continuing to elevate standards across the sector.”
Changes proposed in the new private parking code include introducing an Appeals Charter, creating clear parameters for motorists to appeal against a parking charge, mandating a 10-minute grace period for motorists and giving consistent rules for private parking operators.
The new code requires clear signage to help motorists navigate parking on private land and ensures the protection of the most vulnerable in society, with no decrease to the deterrent for abuse of Blue Badge bays or those who choose to park selfishly, putting their own convenience above the needs or rights of others too.
It also maintains a cap on the parking charge at £100 reduced to £60 if paid within 14 days. The new Code is expected to take effect by October 1, 2024, with all existing car parks required to comply by December 2026. Simon Williams, Head of Policy at RAC, labelled it as an 'unofficial code' and 'a bit of a distraction'. He told Good Morning Britain: "Drivers will inevitably be confused by this unofficial code. We'd be far better off waiting for the official government code."
He added: "And that's why it is just a bit of a distraction and perhaps some smoke and mirrors to distract from the actual code which needs to finally get across the line, hopefully later this year once the elections out of the way."