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Council Fine Check

PCN code 46: Stopped where prohibited (on a red route or clearway)

Stopping on a red route or clearway where stopping is banned (not even to drop off, except as signed).

Code
46
Type
On-street parking
Level
Higher level
Who uses it
On-street parking enforced by the council (and TfL on red routes).

What the council's evidence usually is

Photos or CCTV footage of the stop.

Points to check before you pay

  • Red route rules vary by marking: some allow short boarding or loading; check the signs.
  • TfL issues most red route PCNs in London.

If one of these applies, the usual statutory ground is that the contravention did not occur. Other grounds (not the owner, stolen vehicle, already paid, wrong amount, procedural impropriety) apply whatever the code. The checker shows which fit your case.

How much is a code 46 PCN?

Outside London, councils charge higher level contraventions at £60 or £70 depending on their band, halved if paid early (SI 2022/71, Sch 3). In London it is £160 (Band A) or £140 (Band B) from 7 April 2025 (London Councils). Wales sets its own levels: check your PCN.

Questions

What does PCN code 46 mean?

Stopped where prohibited (on a red route or clearway). Stopping on a red route or clearway where stopping is banned (not even to drop off, except as signed).

Is code 46 a higher or lower level contravention?

It is a higher level parking contravention, so it is charged at the council's higher rate.

Can I challenge my code 46 PCN?

Free. Your answers stay on this device; nothing is sent to us.

Who issued it?
What is it for?
What is the latest letter you have?

Deadlines are counted from when the notice is served. We count from the date printed on it, which is the safe (earliest) choice.

Does any of this apply?

Tick everything that fits, or skip.

Get a ready-to-send challenge letter

Built from your checker answers, quoting the statutory grounds that fit. You see the letter before you pay, then send it yourself.

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  • Grounds and regulation numbers filled in
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One PCN per purchase, letters available for 6 months. Full refund within 14 days if you haven't downloaded a letter. See samples and details.

Letter templates you send yourself. Not legal advice; we never contact councils for you.

Sources

Last checked: 13 November 2026

Something changed? Tell us and we'll re-check it.

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