New car parking rules brought in as drivers fined £100 after 'grace period'

New UK-wide regulations are set to transform the landscape for drivers using car parks. The British Parking Association has agreed on a new 'code of practice' that will dictate how traffic wardens issue fines.

Under the new rules, private car parks will offer drivers a 10-minute 'grace period' before they are hit with £100 fines for failing to pay and display. An 'Appeals Charter' will also be introduced, providing motorists with a clear route to challenge unjust or incorrect parking fines.

The BPA has stated that those who misuse disabled bays without a blue badge will face stringent penalties, while a cap of £100 will be placed on fines, which can be reduced to £60 if paid within 14 days.

READ MORE Tenerife locals' dark reason Jay Slater search may take months

The BPA said in a statement: "The BPA (British Parking Association) and the IPC (International Parking Community) have today published the private parking sector single Code of Practice to be used across the entire private parking sector. This new single Code will raise standards and deliver greater transparency and consistency for the benefit of motorists.

Andrew Pester, BPA Chief Executive, expressed his delight at the release of a unified sector Code across the private parking sector, describing it as a significant milestone in their collaboration with the Government, consumer bodies and other stakeholders to ensure fairer and more consistent parking standards for motorists. He pledged to continue advocating for a positive outcome for all, reports the Express.

Will Hurley, Chief Executive Officer of the IPC, has expressed his support for the new parking regulations, stating: "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."

List of parking charge changes - in full

- The introduction of an Appeals Charter, offering a clear framework for challenging parking charges.

- A mandatory 10-minute grace period is now in place for drivers.

- Uniform rules have been established for all private parking operators.

- Improved signage is required to assist drivers on private land.

- Additional measures to safeguard the most vulnerable individuals, without reducing the deterrent effect against misuse of Blue Badge bays or inconsiderate parking.

- The maximum parking charge remains capped at £100, with a reduction to £60 for payments made within 14 days.