The template
Fill in anything in [square brackets], keep only the grounds that are true for you, and send it to the address or online form on your notice.
[Your name] [Your address] [Today’s date] To: [Council or parking company] Dear Sir or Madam, Re: [Penalty Charge Notice / Parking Charge Notice number] Vehicle registration: [AB12 CDE] I am writing to challenge the above notice, issued on [date] at [location]. I ask that it be cancelled for the following reason(s): 1. [State your ground clearly — e.g. the signs were unclear, the machine was broken, I had paid, a valid Blue Badge was displayed, the paperwork is wrong.] [If useful:] Further details: [what happened, in your own words, plus any photos or receipts you hold]. Please confirm in writing that the notice has been cancelled. If you reject this challenge, please give your reasons and confirm my right to appeal to the independent adjudicator. Yours faithfully, [Your name]
Which grounds should I use?
Use only what genuinely applies — honest, factual grounds win appeals. The most common winners are unclear or missing signs, a faulty machine or app, you had paid (including a keying error in your registration), a valid Blue Badge, and paperwork errors on the notice. Our council PCN guide and private charge guide explain each in detail.
Mind the deadline. For a council PCN, challenging within 14 days usually protects the 50% discount. Never let the date on your notice pass while you wait for a reply.