Motorists will be protected from receiving certain parking fines in private car parks from Monday, February 17.
If drivers cannot pay for parking within the initial timeframe in private car parks monitored by fixed camera technology, they will receive an exemption.
According to the new code, if "payment has been made for the full period of parking prior to the vehicle leaving the car park" managed by ANPR or CCTV, the vehicle will be exempt.
The code applies to sites under the British Parking Association (BPA) and the International Parking Community (IPC) and doesn't extend to local authority car parks or private car parks without camera monitoring.
Andrew Pester, Chief Executive of the British Parking Association said: “The parking sector is always striving to ensure it operates in the interest of compliant motorists and to ensure that parking is fairly managed for all. This change is another important step in achieving this."
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The newly created Private Parking Scrutiny and Advice Panel (PPSAP) reviewed complaints in late 2024 caused by evolving technology.
The panel will engage with consumer groups in early 2025 and has committed to reviewing any emerging issues.
Will Hurley, CEO of the International Parking Community (IPC) said: “It is crucial that there is a mechanism to identify and resolve issues quickly.
"The single Code, along with the creation of the Panel and its swift action reflects the sector’s positive progress and commitment to fairness.”
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The sector's single code of practice was published in October 2024, based on the Government’s withdrawn code.
The exemption only relates to the timing of payment and doesn't include parking fines for other contraventions, such as partial or underpayment, typing the numberplate incorrectly, or parking in a non-permitted bay.