Drivers Express Frustration Over Delay in Government-Backed Private Parking Code of Practice

Drivers are increasingly frustrated that the government-backed Private Parking Code of Practice has still not been implemented, five years after becoming law.

The delay, due to legal challenges from private parking operators and debt recovery companies, has sparked dissatisfaction among many motorists.

According to a survey by the RAC, 84% of drivers believe it’s wrong that the code hasn’t been introduced yet. When asked about the fairness of private parking firms’ practices, only 2% of respondents agreed that these companies treat drivers fairly, while just 3% felt the pricing was reasonable. Over half (55%) of those surveyed believe the enforcement policies are too harsh, and 40% think there is no justification for the way rules are enforced. Almost 80% (78%) of drivers feel that private parking companies are primarily focused on making money, though 18% argue that these operators are necessary to prevent parking chaos.

Regarding parking fines, 65% of respondents agree that while fines are necessary, they are often excessive and disproportionate to the violations.

Though the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government is still working to implement the official code, two key private parking trade bodies—the British Parking Association and the International Parking Community—introduced their own code of practice on October 1. However, this industry-backed code is not legally binding and differs significantly from the proposed government code. According to the RAC’s survey, 87% of drivers do not trust the private parking industry’s code to be fair.

The government-backed code, when introduced, is expected to impose limits on the amounts charged for parking fines, cap debt recovery fees, and establish a single independent appeals system for drivers who feel their appeals have been unjustly rejected. It will also require operators to adhere to a strict code of conduct, with penalties for non-compliance. Key measures include a clear and fair appeals process, identifying vulnerable customers, issuing lawful parking charge notices, providing photographic evidence, avoiding premature involvement of debt recovery companies, and ensuring clear signage and terms that are easy for drivers to understand.

However, the RAC’s survey revealed issues with signage visibility. While 27% of drivers reported not seeing signage outlining parking charges and terms, 35% said they saw and read it, while 38% acknowledged seeing it but not reading it. Of those who read the signs, 76% had difficulty understanding them, with only 20% finding the terms clear and easy to comprehend.

RAC head of policy Simon Williams expressed frustration over the delay, noting that the lack of a government-backed code continues to fuel drivers’ concerns about private parking practices. While the industry’s own code may address some issues, Williams believes it’s unlikely to restore trust as it isn’t legally binding and isn’t written with the best interests of drivers in mind. He emphasized the need for a fair cap on parking fines and debt recovery fees, and an independent, single appeals system to ensure a more just system for drivers.