Getting a parking fine can be frustrating, especially when it’s a Camden Penalty Charge Notice (PCN). Should you pay the Camden PCN or appeal it?
In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about a Camden Penalty Charge Notice. You’ll learn when you need to pay, how you can appeal, and what steps to take next.
Let’s dive in and see what you can do about that Camden PCN on your windshield.
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Camden Penalty Charge Notice: What Is It?
A Camden Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) is a fine issued by Camden Council for traffic or parking violations. The council issues these fines to ensure motorists adhere to local traffic regulations.
Below are some of the offences that will earn you a Camden PCN:
- Parking on double yellow lines.
- Parking in in-residents-only areas without a permit.
- Overstaying the parking duration.
- Driving in a bus lane during restricted hours.
- Making illegal turns.
- Ignoring traffic signs.
- Driving in restricted areas.
Camden Council employs enforcement officers who operate within the council area and issue Camden Town parking tickets. They will leave a yellow sachet containing the fine on your vehicle.
But they can also be sent out in the post when you’re caught on camera. Camden Council retrieves your address by contacting the DVLA and then sends the PCN to the registered keeper in the post.
What should you do if you receive a Camden PCN? Should you pay it right away or appeal? Let’s find out.
Camden PCN Pay Or Appeal – What’s The Best Choice?
Deciding whether to pay or appeal a Camden PCN depends on your specific situation. If you believe the fine is unjust, you have the right to appeal. However, if the fine is valid, paying early can save you money. What if you’re unsure? Let’s look at both options closely.
Camden PCN fine varies between £80 to £130 depending on the severity of the offence. If you pay it within 14 days you’ll get a 50% discount.
This means you only have to pay a minimum of £40 and a maximum of £65. This discount can save you money. So, if you’re sure that you committed the offence, you must pay the fine promptly.
How would you make the Camden PCN payment? Below are the methods:
- Online: This is the most convenient method. Go to the Camden Council website and select the payment tab.
- By phone: Call the Camden Council’s payment line on 020 7974 6104, provide your details, and make the payment.
- By post: You can send a cheque or a postal order to the address; Income Management Team, Town Hall, Judd Street, London WC1H 9JE. Don’t send cash through post.
- At the post office: You can go to a post office and pay the fine through cash, cheque, postal order, or any card.
Note: Have your PCN reference number ready. This number starts with CU and is at the top of your parking ticket.
When you pay the fine, it is crucial to do so within the given timeframe to avoid additional charges. If you’re struggling to pay the fines contact us.
Below are the pros and cons of paying the fine.
- Immediate Resolution: Paying the fine settles the matter quickly.
- Discounted Rate: Paying within 14 days offers a 50% discount.
- No Further Action Required: Once paid, you can move on without any additional steps.
- Financial Cost: You still have to pay, which can be a burden.
- No Challenge: Paying means accepting the fine without contesting it.
If you think your Camden PCN was issued in error, you can appeal it. Here’s how:
- Submit an informal appeal within 14 days if you get the notice in person and within 21 days if you get the notice by post. Mention the reason why you think the PCN is an error. Include evidence like photos, CCTV footage, discrepancies in the notice, etc.
- If the Camden Council rejects your informal appeal, you’ll receive a notice mentioning the same.
- You must respond to the rejection notice with a formal appeal within 28 days. You can get the form for the formal appeal from the Traffic Penalty Tribunal.
- If the council rejects your formal appeal, you can challenge the decision at an independent tribunal. You should pay the fine within 28 days if the independent tribunal rejects your appeal.
Below is an example of a forum post that shows a situation where you can consider appealing Camden PCN.
Source: MoneySavingExpert
Appealing a Camden PCN takes time. Therefore, ensure you have strong evidence to support your claim. Additionally, respond to the council’s notices on time.
Camden Council states that they have a large backlog of PCN appeals, so it may take some time before you hear back on your Camden Penalty Charge appeal. It could also buy you some time to gather the money to eventually pay if your appeal is not successful.
There are advantages and disadvantages of appealing to the PCN. Let’s look at them below.
- Potentially Avoid the Fine: If successful, you won’t have to pay.
- Stand Up for Your Rights: If you believe the fine was issued unfairly, appealing can help rectify the situation.
- Time-Consuming: The appeal process can be lengthy.
- No Guarantee: There’s no assurance that your appeal will be successful.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay The Camden PCN?
Ignoring a Camden PCN can lead to increased fines and further complications. Here’s a step-by-step look at what might happen:
- Notice to Owner: If you do not pay the PCN within 28 days, you will receive a Notice to Owner, giving you another opportunity to pay or appeal.
- Charge Certificate: If the Notice to Owner is ignored, a Charge Certificate is issued, increasing the fine by 50%.
- Order for Recovery: Continued non-payment leads to an Order for Recovery and the involvement of debt collection agencies.
- Bailiffs: In extreme cases, bailiffs may be sent to recover the debt, adding significant costs and stress.
It’s essential to take action as soon as possible to avoid these outcomes. If you don’t have the money to pay the fine, you should contact a debt charity for assistance. Below are some debt charities in the UK:
- StepChange
- Citizens Advice
- National Debtline
Camden PCN Contact Number And Support
If you have questions about your Camden PCN, contacting the council can provide clarity. Here are the ways to get in touch:
- Phone: Call 020 7974 4444 for assistance. This number is available Monday to Friday, from 8 am to 6 pm.
- In-Person: Visit the Camden Reception at 5 Pancras Square. This option allows you to speak directly with a council representative.
- Website: Check the council’s website for more details. The online resources can guide you through the payment and appeal processes.
Reaching out to the council can provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
Ways To Avoid Getting A Camden PCN
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to avoid getting a Camden PCN:
- Follow Parking Rules: Always check parking signs and markings. Ensure you understand the local parking regulations to avoid fines.
- Bus Lanes and Turns: Avoid driving in bus lanes and making illegal turns. These common infractions can easily lead to a PCN.
- Stay Updated: Keep yourself informed about local traffic regulations. Changes in rules can catch you off guard if you’re not aware.
- Use Parking Apps: Many apps can help you find legal parking spots and remind you of time limits.
- Plan Ahead: Before travelling to Camden, review parking regulations and plan where you will park.
- Double-Check Signs: Always read parking signs carefully, as restrictions can vary by time and day.
Taking these preventive measures can save you time, money, and stress. But what if you’ve already received a PCN? What steps should you take?
Next Steps: Pay Or Appeal Your Camden PCN
Deciding to pay or appeal your Camden PCN requires careful consideration. Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:
- Pay If: The fine is valid, and you can pay within 14 days to save money. This is the quickest way to resolve the issue.
- Appeal If: You have a valid reason and evidence to support your claim. If you believe the fine was issued unfairly, appealing is your best option.
Below is a summary of what you should do after getting a Camden PCN.
Whether you choose to pay or appeal, acting promptly is crucial to avoid additional fines and complications.
Final Thoughts
The Camden Council issues the Camden PCN for violating various parking and traffic rules. You may receive a Camden PCN while you are in the vehicle or by post.
The fine ranges between £80 to £130 depending on the severity of the offence. However, paying the fine is not always the right decision.
If you think the PCN notice is an error and you didn’t commit any offence you can appeal the decision. However, if you violate any rules, it’s better to pay the fine within 14 days as you’ll get a 50% discount within this timeframe.
When appealing, first apply for an informal appeal, and if it gets rejected apply for a formal appeal and then you can escalate the matter to an independent tribunal.
If you’re struggling to pay the fines, fill out this online form and one of our debt advisors will reach out to you for guidance.
Act proactively and respond to the council’s notices promptly to avoid escalating the matter.
Key Points
- A Camden Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) is a fine issued for traffic or parking violations in Camden.
- The cost of a Camden PCN ranges from £80 to £130, with a 50% discount available if paid within 14 days.
- Common reasons for receiving a Camden PCN include parking violations, bus lane violations, and moving traffic offences.
- Deciding to pay or appeal a Camden PCN depends on the validity of the fine and the strength of your evidence.
- Ignoring a Camden PCN can lead to increased fines, debt recovery actions, and the potential involvement of bailiffs.
- Camden Council can be contacted via phone, in-person visits, or through their website for support and information.
- Preventive measures to avoid getting a Camden PCN include following parking rules, avoiding bus lanes, and staying updated on traffic regulations.
- If you decide to appeal, gather strong evidence and submit your appeal promptly.
- Taking prompt action is crucial to avoid additional fines and complications.
- Seeking advice from Citizens Advice or legal professionals can help you navigate the appeal process.
FAQs
Yes, you can appeal after 28 days, but it becomes more challenging. You should submit your appeal as soon as possible to avoid additional penalties.
If you lose your Camden PCN reference number, you can contact Camden Council’s support team at 020 7974 4444 to retrieve it. They can provide you with the necessary details to proceed with your payment or appeal.
Yes, there are time limits for Camden PCN appeals. For informal appeals, you have 14 days if the notice was given in person or 21 days if it was posted. Formal appeals must be submitted within 28 days of receiving a Notice to Owner.
Currently, Camden Council does not offer an installment plan for paying PCNs. However, you can contact Citizens Advice or a debt charity for support if you’re struggling to pay the fine.
If you receive a Camden PCN while visiting from abroad, you should follow the same payment or appeal process as local residents. You can pay online through Camden Council’s website or contact them for further instructions.