What is a PCN?
A Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) is a type of fine issued by local councils, Transport for London (TfL), or by a private parking company when a driver is found to have broken certain parking or traffic rules. PCNs are most commonly issued for offences such as:
Parking in a restricted area without the correct permit or payment
Driving in a bus lane during restricted hours
Blocking yellow box junctions
Making prohibited turns or using restricted roads
PCNs are not criminal offences, but they are legally enforceable under civil law. They are usually issued either:
Directly on your vehicle (e.g. placed on the windscreen)
By post, if the offence was caught on camera (e.g. driving in a bus lane or stopping in a box junction)