Ireland · Appeal guide

How to Appeal an Irish Fixed Charge Notice (FCN)

A Fixed Charge Notice (FCN) is the Irish equivalent of a parking fine. Three windows — 28 days, 56 days, then court. Here is how to appeal at each.

By Beat It Editorial Team · Last reviewed 2026-05-28

Stage 1 — Pay or challenge in 28 days

When an FCN is issued (by a Gardaí member, traffic warden, or local-authority enforcement officer) you have 28 days to pay €40 (most parking FCNs) or submit a written challenge to the issuing authority. Make the challenge in writing — letter or email — citing the contravention reference and your statutory ground.

Stage 2 — Pay €60 or face court (days 29-56)

Between days 29-56 the fine doubles to €60 but you can still pay or maintain a challenge. After day 56 the council can apply for a District Court summons, which adds penalty points and a higher fine.

Stage 3 — District Court

If you receive a summons, the case is heard in the District Court. You can plead not guilty and present your defence in person. Common winning grounds: signage non-compliant with S.I. 182/1997, mistake of identity, mitigating circumstances under Road Traffic Act 1994 s.103, or service defects.

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Frequently asked questions

Who can issue an FCN in Ireland?

Gardaí, traffic wardens (local-authority employees), and authorised local-authority parking enforcement officers can all issue FCNs. Each has slightly different procedural rules; check who issued yours.

Will I get penalty points from a parking FCN?

No — pure parking FCNs do not carry penalty points. Penalty points apply to Garda FCNs for moving traffic offences (speeding, mobile phone, dangerous driving, etc.) and to summons convictions.

Can I appeal an FCN after paying?

No. Paying an FCN is treated as admission. The council's discretionary refund power is narrowly used and only succeeds where there is a clear procedural defect.

More Ireland guides

What Is a Fixed Charge Notice?How the €40 → €60 FCN Escalation Works Can I Appeal an FCN After Paying?How to Write an FCN Representation