Five-Minute Parking Payment Rule Abolished in New Industry Update
Private parking companies have announced they will no longer penalise drivers for taking too long to pay after scrapping the controversial “five-minute rule.”
The British Parking Association (BPA) and the International Parking Community (IPC) have updated their codes of conduct to better protect motorists who face delays when making payments.
What Was the Five-Minute Rule?
The rule required drivers to pay for parking within five minutes of entering a private car park. Those who failed to do so could be fined. Many motorists criticised the rule as unfair, saying it didn’t allow enough time to park and pay, especially in busy or unfamiliar areas.
What’s Changing?
From Monday, drivers using car parks monitored by cameras will not be fined as long as they pay before leaving. The update applies only to privately owned car parks and not to council-run facilities or those overseen by wardens.
Impact on Drivers
Private firms issue over 41,000 parking tickets a day in Britain, often criticised for confusing signage and high fees. Motoring organisations have suggested that while this change is a step forward, broader reforms are still needed to make the system fairer.
Government Legislation
A government-backed code of practice for private parking firms was approved in 2019, aiming to reduce fines and create a fairer appeals process. However, it was withdrawn in 2022 following a legal challenge from parking companies.
At ANPRODATA
We comply with the IPC Code of Practice and have adopted the updated approach—no charges for genuine payment delays in ANPR-monitored car parks, provided payment is completed before exit.
Clear, prominent signage: Our sites use high-visibility signs that explain terms, charges, and payment options so drivers can make informed decisions.
Fairness first: If a driver experiences machine faults, app issues, or connectivity problems, we consider this as part of our evidence-based, individual appeal review.
Independent oversight: As an IPC-accredited operator, eligible appeals can be escalated to the Independent Appeals Service (IAS) for impartial adjudication.
For landowners: This change reduces complaints and improves customer experience while keeping car parks orderly—at no cost to you when partnering with ANPRODATA.
For motorists: Need help? Visit How to Pay or Appeal a PCN for secure payment routes and a transparent appeals process.
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