Contravention code 21
Official description
Parked in a suspended bay/space or part of a suspended bay/space
What this means
The authority says the bay you parked in had been suspended, for example for works, an event or a skip.
Penalty level
This code is normally charged at the higher band. Bands differ between authorities, so the amount on your notice is authoritative.
Questions this usually turns on
- Was a suspension notice displayed, and where exactly?
- When was the suspension notice put up relative to when you parked?
- Did the notice cover the whole bay or only part of it?
- Was the notice legible and undamaged?
Evidence commonly relevant
Signs at the location
Photograph the nearest sign close up so the text is readable, then step back and take a second photo showing the sign and your parking space together.
A restriction has to be signed. What the sign says, and whether it can be seen from where you parked, is often the whole case.
Where your vehicle was
Take one photo from the front and one from the back, far enough away to show the vehicle, the bay and the nearest signs together.
Shows the position the authority is describing, from your point of view.
The authority’s photographs
Most London authorities publish the enforcement photos online using your PCN number and vehicle registration. Download them and upload them here.
These are the images the authority will rely on. Reviewing them early tells you what you are actually arguing against.
Other evidence
Upload anything else relevant and describe what it shows.
Some cases turn on something specific to your circumstances.
Procedure
A local-authority PCN follows the statutory process: a reduced amount is normally payable within the discount period, you may challenge the notice, and if a Notice to Owner is served you may make formal representations on specific statutory grounds. If those are rejected you may appeal to an independent adjudicator.
National list of parking contravention codes used by London enforcement authorities · https://www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/services/parking-services/parking-and-traffic/contravention-codes
This record has not yet been reviewed by a qualified person. Always check the wording printed on your own notice.
PCNWatch provides information and document-preparation tools. It does not provide legal advice and does not guarantee that a challenge will succeed.