Stage 1 — Appeal to the clamping operator
Within 28 days of the clamp event, submit a written appeal to the clamping operator. They must consider it and respond within 21 days. Common winning grounds: clamp on a parked vehicle that was not infringing, defective signage, parking outside paid hours, valid disabled-driver permit displayed.
Stage 2 — Appeal to the National Transport Authority
If the operator rejects your appeal (or fails to respond within 21 days), you can appeal to the NTA within 21 days of the operator's decision. The NTA reviews the operator's evidence and either upholds the clamp or orders a refund. NTA decisions are binding on the operator.
Pay first, then appeal
Under the Vehicle Clamping Act 2015 you generally must pay the release fee first (typically €80-€125) to get the vehicle released, then appeal for a refund. Document the clamp with photos before payment — the operator's evidence is otherwise the only record.