The ParkingEye Reality Check
If you have received a PCN from ParkingEye, you need to be careful. Unlike smaller operators, ParkingEye files over 30,000 county court claims a year. They are the most litigious private parking company in the UK.
Why You Shouldn't Use Their Portal (Yet)
ParkingEye's online appeal portal is designed to make you admit liability. Before you log in and "tell your story," check for these automatic defenses:
Defense 1: The "Notice to Hirer" Loophole
If you were driving a company car, hire car, or leased vehicle, ParkingEye must send a special "Notice to Hirer" letter to the hire company. Under POFA 2012, Schedule 4, Paragraph 14(2)(a), if they didn't send this correctly, the ticket is unenforceable against both you AND the keeper.
Defense 2: POFA Paragraph 9 Errors
The Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 sets strict rules for the "Notice to Keeper" letter. ParkingEye must:
- Send it within 14 days of the alleged contravention (or learning keeper details)
- Include specific statutory wording
- State the correct parking period and charge amount
Any errors void the keeper liability transfer, meaning they can only pursue the driver - who they cannot identify.
Defense 3: Signage & Grace Period
As a BPA member, ParkingEye must provide a 10-minute grace period at the end of your paid parking time. They must also have clear, prominent signage. If you overstayed by less than 10 minutes, or if signs were obscured, your ticket may be invalid.
What POPLA Says
If your informal appeal fails, you can escalate to POPLA (Parking on Private Land Appeals). POPLA is independent and free. Statistics show that around 40% of POPLA appeals succeed.
The Bottom Line
ParkingEye is aggressive, but they make mistakes. Check for procedural errors before engaging with them. If you have a valid defense, stand your ground.