CarParkLetterAppeal letters for private parking charges

POPLA verification code expired

When a BPA member operator rejects your appeal, it must give you a 10-digit verification code so you can appeal to POPLA. The code does not last forever.

How long the code lasts

  • You have 28 days from the date the operator rejects your appeal to submit your appeal to POPLA (POPLA FAQs).
  • The verification code is valid for 28 days from the date of issue. After that it no longer gives access to POPLA (POPLA FAQs).

When POPLA accepts an expired code

POPLA says it will only accept an expired code in extenuating circumstances, such as where you were in hospital, abroad, or on armed service away from home. You must have been in that situation for all or most of the time the code was valid (POPLA FAQs, checked 27 Oct 2026). Have evidence ready, such as a discharge letter or travel bookings.

If the operator did not send a code

POPLA says that if you appealed to a BPA operator within the 28-day window and it rejected your appeal, the BPA code of practice requires it to issue a verification code. If the operator refuses, you can contact the British Parking Association. Check your spam folder first, as codes are often sent by email.

If you cannot use POPLA

  • You can still write to the operator with any new evidence and ask it to reconsider.
  • If the operator passes the charge to a debt collector, see debt collector letters.
  • For IPC members the independent stage is the IAS, not POPLA. See IAS or POPLA.

Common questions

Where do I find my verification code?

In the operator's rejection letter or email. Check your spam or junk folder if you appealed by email.

Does a POPLA appeal stop the discount clock?

POPLA says appealing pauses enforcement of the charge but does not pause or extend the discounted payment window.

Build your POPLA appeal letter

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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POPLA verification code expired | CarParkLetter