Independent Appeals Service (IAS)

Overview

The IAS handles appeals against parking charges issued by IPC Accredited Operator Scheme members. It is the counterpart to POPLA. As with POPLA, the decision is binding on the operator but not on the motorist. Note: a single Single Code of Practice intended to merge the two regimes was paused in 2022 and remains under review.

What it handles

• Private parking charge appeals (IPC member operators only)

Fees

• Appeals: Free

Deadlines

• Operator's rejection → 21 days to appeal to IAS

Process

1. Step 1: Appeal to the parking operator first

   A motorist who believes a parking charge was issued in error or who has mitigating circumstances should appeal first to the operator; the IAS cannot accept an appeal until it has first been considered and rejected by the operator that issued the charge.

2. Step 2: Choose standard or non-standard appeal

   A standard appeal must be lodged with the IAS within 28 days of the operator's rejection, is free, and is binding only on the operator; a non-standard appeal can be requested from the operator up to 12 months after the charge was issued, needs the operator's agreement, and requires the motorist to pay a £15 non-refundable contribution, with the decision binding on both parties.

3. Step 3: Gather evidence and reference numbers

   Before appealing, the motorist should gather any evidence they want to include, since a decision cannot be altered once made, and should have the parking charge number and vehicle registration number ready.

4. Step 4: Submit the appeal in writing

   Appeals are conducted only in writing and in English, submitted either through the online portal or by post to the IAS's PO Box address using the required forms.

5. Step 5: IAS decides on the lawfulness of the charge

   The IAS considers the lawfulness of the parking charge, including aspects such as grace periods and exempt vehicles, based on the evidence provided and to the standard of proof of the balance of probabilities; it does not decide cases on mitigating circumstances.

Official sources

Related guides

• Challenging A Parking Ticket