Guide
Penalty Charge Notice vs Parking Charge Notice: What's the Difference?
Both are often called PCNs, which is deeply unhelpful. Same initials, very different beast.
What is a Penalty Charge Notice?
A Penalty Charge Notice is usually an official penalty from a council or public authority. It follows a statutory process and has its own appeal route.
What is a Parking Charge Notice?
A Parking Charge Notice is usually a private parking charge from a company. It is normally based on an alleged breach of parking terms and conditions.
Why both being called PCNs is confusing
The initials are the same, but the rules are different. Check the issuer, the wording at the top of the notice, the payment details and the appeal route before deciding what to do.
Airport PCNs can be different again
Airport Parking Charge Notices may involve byelaws, relevant land and PoFA keeper liability. That makes them worth checking carefully before paying.
Should you ignore a notice?
No. Whether it is council or private, deal with it properly and keep to deadlines.