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Parking Ticket Surge: 15.9 Million Fines Issued!
18 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Private parking firms issued 15.9 million tickets in one year.
- Ticket costs could reach almost £4.4 million daily.
- Legislation for fairer parking practices was withdrawn.
Private parking companies have issued a record 15.9 million tickets to drivers in the year ending September, a 17% rise from the previous year. This means drivers could collectively face nearly £4.4 million in fines daily. The RAC highlights significant issues within the private parking system, suggesting something is 'badly awry' as motorists strive to avoid penalties.
Accusations against some firms include misleading signage, aggressive debt collection, and unreasonable fees. Many drivers report receiving unfair tickets due to confusing payment machines or short time limits on cameras, with some fined for stays as brief as six minutes. Despite government promises to curb predatory practices, fines have increased by over 90%.
A proposed code of practice, aimed at capping tickets at £50 and improving appeals, was withdrawn in June 2022. While a new consultation closed in September, drivers await much-needed regulation and fairer treatment in private car parks.
