Signage non-compliant with S.I. 182/1997
Wexford County Council can only enforce a parking restriction where the signage and lines comply with the Road Traffic (Traffic and Parking) Regulations 1997 (S.I. 182/1997). Faded markings, missing signs, obstructed view of a time-plate, or contradictory information at the location all invalidate the FCN.
The contravention did not occur
Sometimes the FCN is wrong on the facts — the vehicle was not where the traffic warden recorded, the times on the ticket don't match the photo, the contravention code is mismatched, or you were actively loading/unloading and an exemption applies.
Procedural defects under the Road Traffic Act 1994
FCNs must be served correctly and contain all the statutory information required by Road Traffic Act 1994 §103. Wrong amount, missing reference, late service, or improper notification can each invalidate the notice.
Mitigating circumstances
Wexford County Council has discretion to cancel an FCN where there are exceptional circumstances — a medical emergency, vehicle breakdown, a disabled badge that fell off the dashboard, or a malfunctioning pay-and-display machine. A well-evidenced representation regularly succeeds before any District Court summons issues.