Appealing a parking charge issued by Horizon Parking can be straightforward if you follow the correct procedures. As a member of the British Parking Association (BPA), Horizon Parking must adhere to specific guidelines and allow for appeals through an independent service called POPLA (Parking On Private Land Appeals). This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you know exactly what steps to take at each stage.
on 26 April 2026
How Do I Appeal a Horizon Parking Parking Charge?
Horizon Parking follows a structured appeal route that begins with an informal challenge. If this is unsuccessful, you have several further options:
The first step in appealing a parking charge from Horizon Parking is to make an informal challenge directly to the company within 28 days of receiving the charge notice or being made aware of it. This initial challenge can be made over the phone, via email, or through their website. During this stage, provide your reasons for disputing the charge and any supporting evidence you might have.
Step 2: Wait for the Notice to Owner
If your informal challenge is unsuccessful, Horizon Parking must issue a formal notice known as a Notice to Keeper (NtO) within 14 days of the parking event. This notice will outline the reasons for the charge and inform you that you can submit a formal representation against it.
Upon receiving the NtO, you have 28 days from the date on this notice to make a formal representation to Horizon Parking. In your submission, clearly state why you're contesting the parking charge and include any relevant evidence such as photographs of unclear signage or vehicle breakdown documentation.
Step 4: Appeal Free to POPLA
If Horizon Parking rejects your formal representation, you can appeal their decision by submitting an application to POPLA (Parking On Private Land Appeals). Horizon Parking is free to use for motorists. You will need to provide detailed evidence supporting your case and adhere to the timelines outlined in the notice.
What Are Valid Grounds to Appeal a Horizon Parking PCN?
There are several valid reasons why you might choose to appeal a parking charge issued by Horizon Parking:
- Unclear or Missing Signage: If signs were missing, unclear, or not displayed as required under the BPA Code of Practice (which mandates clear and prominent signage), this could be grounds for an appeal.
- ANPR Camera Error: Inaccurate ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) camera readings can lead to unjust charges. Requesting images from the cameras involved may prove your case if they're unclear or incorrect.
- Grace Period Not Given: According to BPA guidelines, a minimum grace period of 10 minutes must be provided before charging for overstaying. If this wasn't observed, it's a valid reason for appeal.
- Payment Machine Broken: If the payment machine was out of order and you were unable to pay the charge as required, this would typically fall under contractual grounds allowing you to contest the fee.
- Medical Emergency or Vehicle Breakdown: Any unforeseen circumstances that prevented compliance with parking regulations provide strong grounds for appeal.
- Registered Keeper Was Not the Driver: Under the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 (Schedule 4), registered keepers aren't liable if they weren't driving. Ensure Horizon Parking understands this distinction.
- Charge Exceeds £100 Maximum: As per BPA guidelines, any charge exceeding £100 is invalid and can be challenged.
Is a Horizon Parking Parking Charge a Fine?
No, a parking charge from Horizon Parking isn't considered a fine or penalty issued by law enforcement. Instead, it's an invoice based on contract terms that govern the use of private parking spaces managed by Horizon Parking.
- Not Criminal: Unlike traffic fines, parking charges don't affect your driving record and can't result in points being added to your licence.
- Civil Enforcement Only: Any legal action taken against you would be through civil courts rather than criminal procedures.
- Maximum Awarded Amount: Should the matter go to court, the maximum award a judge could make is for the charge amount plus any reasonable costs incurred by the motorist.
What Happens If I Don't Pay a Horizon Parking Charge?
If you fail to pay or dispute the parking charge from Horizon Parking, several consequences may follow:
- Reminder Letters: You might receive multiple reminders and notices urging payment.
- Debt Recovery Company Involvement: Should these attempts be unsuccessful, Horizon Parking could involve third-party debt recovery agencies.
- County Court Claim: As a last resort, they may initiate legal proceedings through the county court's Money Claims Online (MCOL) system.
However, even if you face such actions, it's still within your rights to formally contest the charge. Ignoring the matter won't make it disappear; instead, you should take proactive steps to appeal or dispute the charge properly.
What Is POPLA and How Does It Work?
POPLA stands for Parking On Private Land Appeals, a service mandated by the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 (Schedule 4). This independent body handles appeals against parking charges levied by BPA member companies like Horizon Parking. Here's how it works:
- Free Service: POPLA doesn't charge any fees for motorists to use its appeal services.
- Online Submission: You can submit your appeal online, providing all necessary evidence and documentation.
- Decision Binding: Once POPLA makes a decision on your case, both you and Horizon Parking are bound by it.
In 2024, approximately 40% of appeals to POPLA were successful. Therefore, if your initial efforts fail, using this resource could yield positive results without incurring additional costs.
You Do Not Need a Claims Management Company
The entire process of appealing a parking charge from Horizon Parking is designed for motorists to handle independently at no cost:
- Free Appeal Process: Both the informal and formal stages are free.
- POPLA Service Free: There are no fees associated with using POPLA's services.
Therefore, there's no need to engage professional claims management companies that might charge you a fee. The appeal process itself is designed to be accessible and fair for all motorists involved in parking disputes managed by Horizon Parking or similar organisations adhering to BPA standards.
Sources
- Protection of Freedoms Act 2012
- POPLA
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MLJ.org.uk is a free, independent information service. We are not a claims management company, solicitor, law firm, or financial adviser. We do not handle complaints, process claims, charge fees, or accept any percentage of compensation. This information does not constitute legal or financial advice. You do not need a claims management company. The appeal process is completely free.