How Long Do You Have to Appeal a Parking Charge Notice?
Private parking appeals move through a small number of clearly defined stages, each with its own deadline. Missing one can close off an otherwise strong case, so it's worth understanding the full sequence before you start.
Stage 1: The Notice to Keeper window
Once you receive a Notice to Keeper, the operator generally cannot start formal enforcement action for at least 28 days from the date it was served, under Schedule 4 of POFA 2012. This period exists precisely so you have time to appeal or identify the driver.
Stage 2: Appealing directly to the operator
Most operators set out their own deadline for a first-stage appeal in the notice itself — this varies by operator, so check the specific wording on your ticket or letter. This is the appeal Claimo.uk generates and, where the operator accepts direct dispatch, sends on your behalf.
Stage 3: The independent appeal (POPLA or IAS)
If the operator rejects your appeal, you're entitled to escalate to whichever independent body applies — POPLA for BPA members, or the IAS for IPC members (see our POPLA vs IAS guide). Both bodies require a standard appeal to be lodged within 28 days of the operator's rejection letter.
What happens if you miss a deadline
Missing the operator's own first-stage deadline doesn't necessarily end things — some operators will still consider a late appeal, though they're not obliged to. Missing the 28-day POPLA/IAS window is more serious: POPLA's process is generally strict about this, while the IAS may allow a late "non-standard" appeal only with the operator's consent and a £15 contribution. In both cases, the safer approach is always to appeal as early as possible rather than relying on a late exception.
A quick summary
- Receive Notice to Keeper → operator can't enforce for 28 days
- Appeal to the operator directly → deadline set by the operator, check your notice
- If rejected, appeal to POPLA or the IAS → 28 days from the rejection date
Received a Parking Charge Notice from a private operator? Generate your POFA 2012 appeal in about 2 minutes.
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