Banned Turn — Inadequate or Non-Compliant Signage
A banned turn contravention can only be enforced if the restriction is indicated by signage that strictly complies with the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016. Signs must be of the correct diagram number, correct size, correctly positioned, and adequately lit or reflective. Any deviation from prescribed dimensions or placement renders the restriction unenforceable.
Legal basis
Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 (SI 2016/362); Traffic Management Act 2004; Hayward v Essex County Council [various TPT decisions on sign compliance]
How to identify this in your case
Visit the location (or use Google Street View) and photograph the signs. Check the relevant TSRGD 2016 diagram for the exact required dimensions, placement height (usually 2.1m–5.5m minimum clearance), and whether a time plate is required. Also check whether the sign is obscured by vegetation or damage.
Sample appeal wording
Dear Representations Team, Re: PCN [NUMBER] — Vehicle [REG] I formally represent against the above PCN for an alleged banned turn contravention. The Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 prescribe precise requirements for the signs used to indicate turning restrictions. Upon inspection of the location, I have identified the following non-compliance: [describe specific defect]. Please see the attached photographs. Where signage does not meet statutory requirements, a driver cannot be held to have had adequate notice of the restriction, and the contravention cannot be upheld. I request cancellation of this PCN. Yours faithfully, [NAME]
Replace [PARKING DATE], [NtK DATE] etc. with your own dates before sending.
Beat It writes this argument automatically
Scan your PCN — our AI checks if this ground applies to your specific ticket, drafts a properly-cited appeal letter, and submits it to the council on your behalf. Only pay if you win.
Scan my ticket