Who is responsible for on-street parking restrictions?

Under the terms of the Road Traffic Act 1991, most non-endorsable on-street offences became decriminalised and were no longer the responsibility of the police. Initially implemented in London, the Act has now been applied to the Counties and Surrey has been given responsibility for on-street parking restrictions. The County designate roads and other areas where parking and waiting restrictions apply but, in May 2005, delegated the power to enforce these regulations within Epsom & Ewell to the Borough Council.

Why are there parking restrictions?

The aim of parking restrictions is to increase the safety on the roads and around schools, reduce congestion and to improve traffic flow generally. They are not seen as a method of raising revenue.

How are the parking restrictions enforced?

This function is called Civil Parking Enforcement (CPE) and is managed by the Borough Council on behalf of Surrey County Council. We employ parking attendants who patrol the off-street car parks as well as the roads and areas where restrictions apply and will issue Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) as necessary.

How much is the fine?

There are two types of fines with the amount of the fine in 2008-2009 being either £50 or £70 but a 50% discount is applied if payment is made within 14 days of the date of the PCN. Conversely, the amount will be increased by 50% to either £75 or £105 initially if the owner fails to pay within 14 days of receiving the official Notice to Owner, usually issued within 4-6 weeks of the PCN date, and can rise substantially if the matter has to be referred to bailiffs, following court action.

How do I pay the fine if I am given a Penalty charge Notice?

Details of the various methods of payment are printed on the actual Notice. Payments may be made on line, or by debit or credit card over the telephone by calling 01372 732000 during office hours, in person at the Town Hall between 9 am to 4 pm or by post. Cheques should be made payable to Epsom & Ewell Borough Council.

What can I do if I disagree with the Penalty Charge Notice?

If you feel that you have been unfairly or incorrectly penalised, you may use our online form to inform us, telephone 01372 732000 to discuss the matter or write in to the CPE section at the Town Hall, clearly stating your reasons for appeal and providing any evidence that you have to support your claim. We will examine the photographs and notes taken at the time that the PCN was issued and your reasons for appeal and will make a decision, based on strict criteria, within a few days. If your appeal is rejected, you have the right to ask for independent arbitration and details of how to do this will be sent on request.

If I appeal, will I lose the discount?

If you appeal within 14 days of the date that the Notice was issued, you will still be able to pay the reduced amount if your appeal is rejected, provided that you do so within 14 days of the date of the appeal rejection letter.

If I notice a car that is parked illegally, can I report it?

You can report cars parked illegally using our online form.  Although we are not able to respond to isolated incidents, we will try to assist if the illegal parking is persistent or is causing inconvenience to residents or to other road users. The police have retained responsibility for any vehicle that is causing an obstruction on a major highway.