Appeal a Dorset Parking Ticket

Last updated: March 2026

Dorset Council enforces parking across this scenic southern county, covering the Jurassic Coast, Weymouth, Dorchester, and the Purbeck area. Note that Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole are covered by BCP Council separately. Coastal and tourist parking generates a high volume of seasonal PCNs.

Enforcement Approach

Dorset Council operates civil parking enforcement across the county with foot patrols in town centres and coastal car parks. Weymouth seafront, Lyme Regis, Swanage, and Dorchester see the most enforcement activity. Seasonal pricing and restrictions apply at many coastal locations. Penalties are £50–£70, halved within 14 days.

Common Parking Hotspots

• Weymouth seafront: Heavy seasonal enforcement with time-limited bays
• Lyme Regis: Very limited parking in the steep town centre
• Swanage: Seasonal tourist parking restrictions
• Dorchester: County town centre meter bays and CPZs

How to Appeal

Follow the standard council PCN appeal process:

1. Informal challenge: Write to Dorset Council within 14 days. Discount frozen during review.
2. Formal representation: If rejected, respond to the Notice to Owner within 28 days.
3. Traffic Penalty Tribunal: If rejected, appeal to the independent Traffic Penalty Tribunal, which is free.

Key Defences

• BCP vs Dorset: Check which council issued your ticket if near the boundary
• Seasonal signage: Verify that summer restrictions and pricing are clearly displayed
• Coastal car park terms: Ensure pay-and-display signs are compliant
• Procedural time limits: Verify service deadlines

Related Guides

• How to Appeal a Council Parking Ticket (PCN)
• Parking Ticket Time Limits
• Traffic Penalty Tribunal Guide
• Appeal a Bournemouth Parking Ticket