Andy Burham puts an end to 'rip-off' parking charges and scams

The new 'Private Parking Code of Practice' has outlined new rights for drivers to challenge 'rip-off' parking charges and scams, the Government announced this week.

The new rules include a guaranteed 5 minutes to decide whether to park in a car park, 10 minutes to leave once the session ends and the right to have charges cancelled on appeal for issues out of the driver's control.

Charges for honest mistakes, such as stopping briefly to check directions, medical emergencies, breakdowns or broken ticket machines, will all be written off under the new rules.

For smaller errors, like forgetting parking permits, entering registrations incorrectly or forgetting to confirm them at the machine, parking operators can only charge a maximum of £20 on appeal.

The new Code caps maximum parking charges at £100. Operators who don't comply risk losing access to DVLA data, making it difficult to track down registered owners for payment.

The changes come as part of Prime Minister Andy Burnham's series of 'everyday fixes', aiming to tackle the frustrations that cost people time and money.

Burnham said: "Being a few minutes late back to your car or typing one digit of your number plate wrong shouldn’t end with a hefty fine landing on your doormat. These charges leave people feeling ripped off and out of pocket, so I’m putting a stop to them. 

"We are introducing clearer rules, longer grace periods and lower charges for genuine mistakes, while going after the deliberate scams that rip drivers off."

As part of the changes, the Government has promised to consult next year on private parking debt recovery fees, including whether to cut the existing £70 cap or lose the charges altogether.

Parliament will now have the chance to challenge the new Code before ministers go ahead and bring it into force.