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Electric vehicle (EV) owners across the UK are facing unexpected parking fines while charging their cars in private car parks. Many motorists have reported receiving Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) due to unclear signage regarding parking fees and charging station usage.
Drivers have expressed frustration over the lack of clear information at charging points, with some signs failing to specify that parking fees apply when using these facilities. In some instances, EV owners discovered that certain charging stations were advertised as available, yet their use violated the car park's terms and conditions.
This situation raises questions about whether charging an electric vehicle is considered parking, as fines are being issued under this premise. The confusion surrounding the rules is prompting calls for better signage and clearer communication from car park operators to prevent further misunderstandings.
As the UK pushes towards greater EV adoption, ensuring that drivers are well-informed about charging and parking regulations will be crucial in supporting the transition to electric mobility.
Source: www.theguardian.com – https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/jul/15/drivers-charging-electric-cars-parking-fine-ev-pcn-car-parks