Parking fine FAQs
We've gathered together some frequently asked questions which we hope are helpful.
I am trying to pay a fine on the online payment system, and my reference number is not recognised?
Only parking fines starting with LF - please ensure the LF prefix is inputted in capital letters - pay a car park fine.
Fines issued by Staffordshire County Council for onstreet parking contraventions will start with the reference GE and relate to on-street car parking fines - find out more.
What are civil enforcement officers (CEOs)?
Civil enforcement officers are parking attendants (sometimes referred to as traffic wardens).
I did not receive a penalty charge notice but have received a notice to owner requesting I pay the full amount - can I pay the discounted rate?
No we are sorry but the discounted sum can only be paid within 14 days of the contravention. You can appeal a car park fine - find out more.
I no longer own this vehicle, why do you keep writing to me?
If we have written to you it is because you are still the registered owner/keeper with the DVLA, and you need to inform them of when and whom you sold the vehicle to.
The registered owner/keeper is responsible for any penalty charge notice issued to the vehicle.
My representation was rejected - if I don’t agree with your decision. What can I do?
Visit our appeals section to find out more.
I have received a charge certificate but didn’t receive the notice to owner. Can I dispute the penalty?
No. The notice to owner was sent to the same address, so it is too late to dispute it.
We will register the debt at the Traffic Enforcement Centre (TEC) and send you the court order. Please read these carefully which will explain the what you can do. Visit our appeals section to find out more.
I have received the court order but want to dispute the penalty now. Can I do this?
No. Please read the court papers carefully. You can make a witness statement if the grounds shown in the court papers apply. This may enable you to have the opportunity of presenting your case. Visit our appeals section to find out more.
You can’t make a declaration if none of the grounds apply.
I’ve been contacted by the bailiffs. Can I dispute the penalty now?
No, sorry it’s too late. Please speak directly to the bailiff or seek legal advice or contact the Citizens Advice Bureau.
Is parking enforcement just another money-making scheme for the council?
The council does not make a profit from issuing car parking tickets and all money received is put back into parking services.