If a vehicle is parked in contravention of a Traffic Regulation Order (eg by parking in the wrong place or failing to display a valid parking permit/ticket) the vehicle would be issued with a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN).

It should be noted that resident and business parking permits do not give exemptions from single or double yellow line restrictions. A towing and clamping service may also be considered in the future.

The following documents provide information regarding the enforcement of parking regulations in Bedford. However, should you need any further information please telephone the office on 01234 718057.

• Enforcement (PDF) - how to avoid a PCN and how to appeal
• Grounds for Representations on appeal (PDF)

Pay or challenge a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) 

If you have received a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) you can pay or challenge it here:

Pay or challenge a Penalty Charge Notice

Challenges

You cannot call or speak to someone in person to challenge a PCN. 

Challenges to a PCN can only be made in writing:

• use the online form above
• to Bedford Parking Services at the address shown on the reverse of the Notice within 14 days of the date the Notice was issued
• email your challenge to parking.services@bedford.gov.uk

Please ensure you include your name and postal address in your correspondence to enable us to respond to you.

Once a challenge has been received, the Penalty Charge Notice will be placed on hold until a response is sent out.  

Remember, the ‘charge’ for parking unlawfully is £70 or £50 depending on the nature of the contravention. If the PCN remains unpaid after all appeals have been exhausted, additional charges will be incurred.

PATROL Adjudication Joint Committee

PATROL (Parking and Traffic Regulations Outside London) offers comprehensive information on parking and traffic regulations. 

The Council is a member of the Parking and Traffic Regulations Outside London (PATROL) Adjudication Joint Committee. The Joint Committee publishes an Annual Statement of Accounts which is subject to External Audit.

Contact Parking Services

Email: parking.services@bedford.gov.uk

Tel: 01234 718057