How to challenge a bus lane or box junction penalty

Watch the footage

Most councils let you view the photos or video online using the details on the notice. Look carefully at what actually happened and when.

• Bus lanes: was the lane in operation at that time (check the hours on the sign)? Did you only enter briefly to avoid an obstruction, let an emergency vehicle pass, or turn left where allowed?
• Yellow box junctions: was your exit clear when you entered and then blocked by another vehicle? Stopping in the box is generally allowed when you're waiting to turn right and only stopped by oncoming traffic or other vehicles waiting to turn right.
• Banned turns and no entry: were the signs present, visible and correct?
• Is it your vehicle, and were you the owner on that date?

New cameras

In England outside London, councils that start using cameras to enforce moving traffic rules at a new location are generally expected to send a warning notice, rather than a penalty, for a first contravention during the first months. If you got a penalty from a brand-new camera, mention it.

How to challenge it

• 1. Make representations to the council or TfL within 28 days of the notice date.
• 2. If they're rejected, appeal free to the tribunal, usually within 28 days.
• 3. If you ignore it, the amount usually increases by 50% and can go to enforcement agents.