Penalty charge guide

If you have received a PCN then it’s because you have parked in contravention of a parking restriction.  

The exact reason will be on the PCN with a unique number which you will need to pay or appeal.  

Do not ignore a PCN. 

Important deadlines 

• If you pay within 14 days, the fine is reduced by 50%. 
• If you don’t pay or make an informal challenge within 28 days, a ‘notice to owner’ form will be sent to the DVLA registered keeper. 
• If payment or formal representation isn’t made within 28 days of the date on the ‘notice to owner’ form being received, a charge certificate will be issued. 
• If you receive a charge certificate, you must pay within 14 days. There is no right to make a challenge at this stage. If payment isn’t made, debt recovery may be pursued.  

Pay a penalty charge  

Informal challenge 

You can challenge a parking fine any time up to 28 days after the date the fine was issued. However, if you challenge your fine within 14 days of receiving it you will only pay the reduced amount, even if your challenge is unsuccessful. 

Make an informal challenge

Formal representation 

You can make a formal representation if:  

• your informal challenge is rejected, and you want to appeal against this decision, or
• you haven't paid the PCN after 28 days and receive a 'notice to owner'
• you will have a further 28 days from the date on the 'notice to owner' to make a formal representation
• you will need the web code printed on your 'notice to owner' letter, your WJ reference number and your vehicle registration number

You do not need to have made an informal challenge to make a formal representation. 

If your formal representation is rejected, we will notify you of this by letter. This letter will also tell you how you can appeal this decision.  

Make a formal representation 

You will need to quote the number from your fine. You will also need to clearly state the reasons why you want to challenge the fine. 

If you need help with this, you can call South Wales Parking Group on 033 33 200 867 

You cannot challenge a parking fine over the phone or in person. It must be done online or in writing – please see the penalty notice letter for more information.