If you think you have received a fine in error, or have mitigating circumstances that you want to tell us about, you can challenge a bus lane fine. We call this a formal representation. While you are challenging the fine, you should not pay it, until you know the outcome of your challenge. You can do this online or by post.
From 31 May 2022 new regulations come into force which introduce some key changes to how we manage bus lane fines after this date. This includes the amount of the original fine and the period that the 50% discount applies.
You can find out more about The Civil Enforcement of Road Traffic Contraventions (Approved Devices, Charging Guidelines and General Provisions) (England) Regulations 2022 and The Civil Enforcement of Road Traffic Contraventions (Representations and Appeals) (England) Regulations 2022 on the Legislation.gov.uk website. We will enforce this legislation alongside Section 78 of the Traffic Management Act 2004.
How long you have to challenge a fine
You can challenge a bus lane fine any time up to 28 days after the date the fine was served (this is normally 2 working days after issue).
Bus Lane contraventions dated before 31 May 2022
The fine is £60, and the 50% discount period (reducing the fine to £30) covers the first 14 days. We are unable to extend the 14 day period for discounted payment if your challenge is not accepted.
These contraventions will be enforced under Section 144 of the Transport Act 2000 and Bus Lane Contraventions (Penalty Charges, Adjudication and Enforcement) (England) Regulations 2005).
Bus Lane contraventions dated on or after 31 May 2022
The fine has increased to £70 and the 50% discount period (reducing the fine to £35) covers the first 21 days. These contraventions will be enforced under:
- Section 78 of the Traffic Management Act 2004
- The Civil Enforcement of Road Traffic Contraventions (Approved Devices, Charging Guidelines and General Provisions) (England) Regulations 2022
- The Civil Enforcement of Road Traffic Contraventions (Representations and Appeals) (England) Regulations 2022
Before you challenge your fine
To make a challenge to your fine, you will need the following:
- the Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) number, for example BN12345678
- your vehicle registration number
- the Web Code from the top of the PCN we sent you, for example 123AB456
You can find this information on the notice we sent you about the fine.
Challenge a bus lane fine online
Other ways of challenging a bus lane fine
By post
Please send your challenge to: Parking Services, Bath and North East Somerset Council, PO Box 5197, Bath, BA1 0UF.
You cannot challenge a parking fine over the phone or in person. It must be done in writing. You will need to quote the number from your fine, which will start with BN. You will need to clearly state the reasons why you want to challenge the fine. If you need help with this, you can call 01225 477133 or visit a Information and Advice Service.
If your challenge is rejected
If we cannot accept your challenge, we will inform you of this by letter within 56 days. The letter will tell you how you can appeal the decision. The Traffic Penalty Tribunal will handle your appeal, and their decision will be final. From 31 May 22, you may file a Witness Statement as part of the appeals process instead of a Statutory Declaration.
Getting advice
For independent advice, please contact PATROL UK