Applies to council penalty charge notices
You were caught in a bus lane
Bus lane contraventions turn almost entirely on signage and on what the full footage shows. The still image the council sends rarely tells the whole story.
No account, no card, nothing stored.
Why this works
Always ask for the full uncut footage
The approach is where the case is decided. A still image taken inside the lane shows nothing about what warning you had.
Check the hours
Many bus lanes operate only at specified times. Check the sign and the Traffic Regulation Order against the time on your notice.
Being forced in is a real argument
Where traffic, a road layout or an obstruction left no safe alternative, entry was not a matter of choice.
Evidence to attach
- The full camera footage, which you should request in writing
- Photographs of the advance and terminal signs as a driver sees them
- Dashcam footage if you have it
More appeals fail on missing evidence than on weak arguments. Send copies, never originals, and keep a proof of posting.
Common questions
Can I appeal a parking ticket if a bus lane camera fine?
A driver must have a fair opportunity to see the restriction and leave the lane safely. Advance signing that is hidden, faded or too late does not achieve that. Challenging costs nothing, and if the issuer rejects you the escalation to an independent adjudicator is also free.
How long do I have to appeal?
Usually 28 days from the date on the notice, but the deadline that matters is often 14 days. Challenge within that window and most councils keep the 50% discount open for a further 14 days if they reject you. Private operators normally offer a reduced sum for the same period.
What evidence should I send?
The full camera footage, which you should request in writing. Photographs of the advance and terminal signs as a driver sees them. Dashcam footage if you have it.
Does it cost anything to appeal?
No. Challenging the issuer is free, and escalating to POPLA, the Independent Appeals Service, the Traffic Penalty Tribunal or London Tribunals is free for motorists. Voidly does not charge you either.
Write your appeal now
Answer a few questions and Voidly assembles the right grounds for your case, with a checklist of what to attach.
Start my appealOther reasons people appeal
- The signs were not clear
- The notice arrived too late
- You were not the driver
- You paid but mistyped your registration
- Your vehicle was never at that location
- You were only a few minutes over
- The payment machine was not working
- You had a Blue Badge
Voidly produces a draft letter to help you appeal. It is not legal advice. Always check the letter and the deadline on your notice before sending.