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Private Parking Tickets Hit Record 15.9 Million in Britain, Up 17% Year on Year

Pressure is building for ministers to publish a long‑delayed code of practice after a consultation closed in September.

Overview

  • Press Association analysis of DVLA data shows 15.9 million tickets were issued by private operators in the year to the end of September, a 17% rise from 13.6 million.
  • Around 48,000 tickets were being issued each day between June and September, according to the RAC.
  • At the current £100 maximum charge, drivers could collectively face nearly £4.4 million in penalties per day.
  • Enforcement relies on DVLA record requests that cost £2.50 each, with 188 firms seeking owner details in the latest quarter and ParkingEye purchasing 643,000 records.
  • Motoring groups cite confusing signage, problematic payment machines and aggressive debt collection, while a 2024 voluntary industry code drew criticism for lacking caps on charges and debt-fee reforms.