How to appeal a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN)

How can I appeal a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN)?

There are two ways to challenge a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) issued by Ipswich Borough Council, dependent on its stage of progression.

• An Informal Challenge
• A Formal Challenge (Representation)

Please refer to the guidance below that indicates circumstances where cancellation will be considered. It is important to note that this information is for guidance and that each case will be considered on its individual merits.

• Download the On-street PCN cancellation guidance (PDF)
• Download the Off-street PCN cancellation guidance (PDF)

Can I view my Penalty Charge Notice photos?

Yes, just simply click on the button below to view the photos that were taken by the Civil Enforcement Officer at the time of contravention (PCN issued).

Note: The button below opens in a new window.

View photos of your Penalty Charge Notice

Want to make an informal challenge?

Click the button below to submit your challenge before a Notice to Owner is issued. 

Note: The button also opens in a new window.

Make an informal challenge

If you make your challenge within 14 days of the date on which the PCN was issued and your challenge is rejected, the discount period will be reset for a further 14-day period from the date of the rejection letter.

If you have received a Notice to Owner, you must submit a Formal Challenge.

Formal Challenge (Representation)

A Formal Challenge can be made after a Notice to Owner has been issued/served.

If the PCN is not responded to within 28 days of the date on which it was served, a Notice to Owner will be sent in the post. If you want to appeal at this stage, you need to submit a ‘Formal Challenge (Representation)’.

Note: The button below also opens in a new window.

Make a formal challenge

Additional resources:

• Print or Download the Formal Representations Form (PDF) 
• Find more information about the ‘service’ of notices (PDF)
• To find out what happens next, view our What Happens Next (PDF).

Rejected appeals

If your representation is rejected, you will be issued with a Notice of Rejection. The Notice of Rejection will explain how you can take your appeal to the Traffic Penalty Tribunal who are the independent adjudicator. The Tribunal would arrange for a hearing which is usually conducted via a telephone hearing between the appellant, the adjudicator and a representative of the local authority. At this stage the adjudicators' decision is final.

For more information about the appeals process, visit Patrol UK.