CarParkLetterAppeal letters for private parking charges

Appealing a private parking charge at a hospital

Many hospital car parks are run by private operators. The usual private parking rules apply, but there is extra guidance for NHS sites and some appeal grounds are common at hospitals.

Free parking for those in greatest need (England)

Government guidance for NHS trusts and NHS foundation trusts in England says free car parking should be provided for those in greatest need. The groups named are disabled people, frequent outpatient attenders, parents of sick children staying overnight, and staff working night shifts (Department of Health and Social Care, guidance last updated 29 March 2022). If you were in one of these groups, ask the hospital how to claim and say so in your appeal.

Overrunning appointments and illness

The Single Code says operators must reduce a charge to £20 for 14 days where the driver or a passenger suffers the onset of illness, or is delayed by an overrunning medical appointment, if you provide evidence (Annex F.3 b). Operators should also take clear evidence of illness or emergency into account when deciding whether to cancel the charge (Annex F introduction).

Emergencies

A charge must not be pursued where the vehicle was driven onto the land because of an emergency outside the driver's control, such as serious illness, if you provide evidence (Annex F.1 e). Doctors and health workers on an emergency call and displaying an authorised badge are also covered (Annex F.1 b).

Blue Badge holders

If you hold a Blue Badge but did not display it, the Single Code says the charge should be reduced to £20 for 14 days if you send a copy of a badge valid at the time (Annex F.3 e). This does not cover unpaid tariffs where payment was required.

Evidence to send

  • An appointment letter or text, and anything showing when the appointment actually finished.
  • A letter from the ward or clinic, or a discharge note, if illness or an emergency was involved.
  • Your payment receipt, if you paid for some of the time.

Common questions

Is hospital parking free in England?

Not for everyone. The government guidance asks NHS trusts in England to provide free parking for groups in greatest need. Other visitors may have to pay the tariff.

My appointment ran late. Will the charge be cancelled?

The Single Code requires at least a reduction to £20 for 14 days where you can evidence an overrunning appointment. Whether the operator cancels it entirely depends on the evidence. If refused, you can go to POPLA or the IAS. See IAS or POPLA.

Check your hospital parking notice

The new government Code

A government Private Parking Code of Practice was laid in Parliament on 20 October 2026. It is not yet in force. When it is, it will replace the Single Code and include a mandatory 5-minute consideration period and a 10-minute grace period. Until then, the Single Code applies.

Important

Not legal advice. CarParkLetter is run by Pricing Logic Limited. We provide templates and general information only. We are not solicitors. Check your letter before you send it.

No guarantee of success. Outcomes depend on the facts, the evidence, the operator and the appeals body. If an appeal fails you may still have to pay, possibly without the early payment discount.

Sources

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Private parking charge at a hospital | CarParkLetter