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How to Submit a POPLA Appeal

Last updated: April 2026

POPLA (Parking on Private Land Appeals) is the independent appeals service for charges issued by BPA member operators. You can appeal to POPLA if your internal appeal to the operator was rejected. POPLA decisions are binding on the operator but not on you. You have 28 days from the internal appeal rejection to submit your POPLA appeal.

  • --POPLA handles appeals for BPA member parking operators only
  • --You must have exhausted the operator's internal appeals process first
  • --Submit your POPLA appeal within 28 days of the internal rejection
  • --POPLA decisions are binding on the operator but not on the motorist

Key Takeaways

  1. Check that your operator is a BPA member -- IPC members use the IAS instead
  2. You need the appeal code provided in the operator's rejection letter
  3. Include all your evidence and arguments -- POPLA decides on what you submit
  4. POPLA considers the operator's code compliance as well as legal grounds
  5. If POPLA rejects your appeal, you can still defend a court claim on any ground
1

Confirm Your Operator Is a BPA Member

POPLA only handles appeals for BPA member operators. Check the operator's correspondence for the BPA logo or a reference to POPLA. If the operator is an IPC member, your appeal goes to the IAS instead. Using the wrong service will result in your appeal being rejected.

2

Locate Your Appeal Code

When the operator rejects your internal appeal, they must provide a POPLA appeal code. This is usually in the rejection letter. You cannot submit a POPLA appeal without this code. If the operator did not provide an appeal code, this is a breach of the BPA Code of Practice and should be reported.

Tips

  • --Check the rejection letter carefully -- the code may be in the small print
  • --If no code was provided, contact POPLA directly and explain the situation
3

Prepare Your Appeal Submission

Write a clear, structured submission setting out your grounds for appeal. Include your reference number, the date of the alleged contravention, and each ground of appeal with supporting evidence. Attach photographs, copies of the NTK, the envelope postmark, and any other documents that support your case.

Tips

  • --Use numbered paragraphs for clarity
  • --Reference specific BPA Code of Practice provisions where relevant
  • --Keep your submission factual and concise

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4

Submit Online via the POPLA Website

Go to the POPLA website and follow the submission process. Enter your appeal code, provide your personal details, and upload your written submission and evidence documents. You will receive a confirmation once your appeal is submitted. Save the confirmation for your records.

Tips

  • --Upload documents in PDF format where possible
  • --Check file size limits before uploading large image files
5

Wait for the POPLA Decision

POPLA will review your appeal and the operator's response. The process is entirely paper-based -- there is no hearing. POPLA aims to decide within a reasonable timeframe. You will be notified of the outcome by email or post. If POPLA upholds your appeal, the charge is cancelled. If they reject it, the charge stands but you can still defend a court claim.

Tips

  • --You may be asked to provide additional information during the review
  • --POPLA decisions are final within the appeals process

Frequently Asked Questions

What is POPLA?

POPLA (Parking on Private Land Appeals) is the independent appeals service for parking charges issued by BPA member operators. It provides an impartial review of disputed charges.

How long does a POPLA appeal take?

POPLA aims to process appeals within a few weeks, but timescales can vary depending on caseload. You will be notified when a decision is reached.

Is the POPLA decision final?

The POPLA decision is binding on the operator -- if they uphold your appeal, the charge must be cancelled. However, if POPLA rejects your appeal, you can still defend a county court claim on any legal ground.

Can I add new evidence to my POPLA appeal?

Yes. You can include evidence and arguments in your POPLA appeal that were not part of your internal appeal. This is your opportunity to present the strongest possible case.

What if the operator did not give me an appeal code?

This is a breach of the BPA Code of Practice. Contact POPLA directly and explain that the operator did not provide an appeal code. POPLA may be able to assist.

Is there a fee for submitting a POPLA appeal?

No. Submitting a POPLA appeal is free for the motorist. There is no cost to you regardless of the outcome.

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