United Kingdom · Appeal guide

What Is a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN)?

A PCN is a civil financial penalty for a parking, bus-lane, or traffic contravention in England, Scotland or Wales. Plain-English explainer of what one is, who issues them, and what you can do.

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

PCNs are civil, not criminal

A Penalty Charge Notice is a civil debt, not a criminal fine. Unpaid PCNs do not create a criminal record. They are issued under the Traffic Management Act 2004 by local councils, by Transport for London for red routes / bus lanes / Congestion Charge / ULEZ, and by some private parking operators (though private operators technically issue "Parking Charge Notices" — same initials, different legal basis).

How much is a PCN?

Council PCNs are usually £60 or £80 with a 50% discount for paying within 14 days. TfL PCNs and ULEZ / Congestion Charge penalties can be £160-£180. Private parking operators commonly charge £60-£100 with a similar early-payment discount.

What happens if I ignore a PCN?

Council PCN: the council issues a Notice to Owner, then a Charge Certificate (which raises the amount by 50%), then registers the debt with the Traffic Enforcement Centre and can pursue it via court bailiffs. Private PCN: the operator can sue you in the County Court — and increasingly does. Ignoring is almost always a mistake.

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Frequently asked questions

PCN vs FPN — what is the difference?

A Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) is criminal, issued by the police for offences like speeding or running a red light. A PCN is civil, issued by councils for parking and traffic contraventions. PCNs do not carry penalty points.

Can a PCN affect my credit score?

Not directly. But if the council obtains a County Court Judgment (CCJ) for an unpaid PCN, that CCJ will appear on your credit file for 6 years.

Are private parking charges enforceable?

Yes — since the Supreme Court ruling in ParkingEye v Beavis [2015] UKSC 67. But the operator must comply with the BPA or IPC code of practice and (for keeper liability) with PoFA 2012 Schedule 4.

More United Kingdom guides

How to Appeal a Parking Fine in the UK How Long Do I Have to Appeal a PCN?Can I Appeal a PCN if I Have Already Paid?How to Write a PCN Appeal Letter (UK)