Shared use bays those that allow both permit holders and pay-and-display motorists to park are a common source of confusion.
You might think you’ve followed the rules, only to return to a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) on your windscreen.
These are civil matters, and the burden of proof is on the council to show the bay was clearly marked.
Top Grounds for a Shared Use Bay Appeal
- Confusing Signage: The sign must clearly state which rules apply at what times. If the sign is “split” and the timings for permit holders vs. pay-and-display are contradictory or poorly laid out, the “contract” for parking is void.
- Machine Malfunction: If the pay-and-display machine was out of order and there was no alternative way to pay (like a working app or a second nearby machine), the council should cancel the fine.
- No Road Markings: Shared bays must have specific road markings to distinguish them from standard resident-only bays. If these markings are faded or missing, the PCN is unenforceable.
- The 10-Minute Grace Period: Under the Deregulation Act 2015, councils in England must give a 10-minute grace period after your paid-for time has expired in a designated bay before issuing a PCN.
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