The "Forbidding Signage" Defense
SIP Parking operates many sites in Manchester and the North West. A common error on their signs is using "Prohibitive" language.
What is Prohibitive?
If a sign says "No Parking" or "Parking Prohibited", it is forbidding you from parking. This creates a legal problem for the operator.
Why It Matters
Contract law requires:
- Offer: "You may park here for £X" (permissive)
- Acceptance: You park
- Consideration: Payment or agreement to terms
If the sign says "No Parking," there is no offer - just a prohibition. You cannot accept an offer that was never made.
The Technical Argument
"The signage at this location states 'No Parking' [or similar prohibitive language]. This is not an offer to contract but a prohibition. Since no offer was made, no contract can have been formed through my parking. The operator's remedy lies in trespass (nominal damages), not breach of contract (£100)."
The Practical Effect
If no contract exists, the operator cannot claim £100 as a "parking charge." Their only remedy would be a trespass claim, which typically results in nominal damages of £1-5.
Checking the Signage
- Look at the exact wording on the signs
- Does it say "No Parking" or "Parking Permitted for 2 hours"?
- Prohibitive = No contract possible
- Permissive = Contract may be formed
Photograph Everything
Take clear photos of all signage wording. This defense is technical and requires precise evidence of the language used.