Thousands of UK drivers are being hit with unexpected fines of up to £100 after a little-known parking rule began being strictly enforced across the country.
The issue centres around private car parks using Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems — where cameras track when vehicles enter and leave, rather than when they are actually parked.
Many drivers say they are being fined for overstaying by just a few minutes, often without realising that the clock starts the moment they enter the car park — not when they find a space.
This has led to a surge in complaints, with motorists claiming the rules are unclear and unfair.
In some cases, drivers say they were fined even after paying for parking, simply because they took too long to exit due to queues or congestion.
Consumer groups have warned that the signage in many of these car parks is difficult to read, often filled with small print that most people don’t notice until it’s too late.
The British Parking Association has previously stated that operators should allow “grace periods” for drivers entering and leaving sites — but critics argue these are not always being applied properly.
Social media has been flooded with angry posts from drivers who feel they’ve been caught out by what they describe as a “trap.”
Some are now calling for stricter regulation of private parking firms, with demands for clearer signage, fairer time allowances, and limits on penalty charges.
Legal experts say drivers can appeal fines — but success often depends on proving unclear signage or exceptional circumstances, which can be difficult without evidence.
With more retail parks and supermarkets relying on automated systems, the number of fines issued is expected to keep rising.
For many drivers, it’s a costly lesson — and one that’s catching people out every day.
