Closed petition: Cap the cost of council fines at 100% of the original charge

Closed on 27 September 2025

Stop councils from being able to legally issue fines of several £100s which may be much more than the initial charge. We think fines should be capped at 100%. The cost-of-living crisis for many means these fines may cause undue financial stress.

I recently got caught out in a Clean Air Zone (CAZ). I run a small business, live alone and have many financial burdens, often living week to week financially. Like many I also battle mental health issues due to anxiety and overwhelm. After a hectic weekend and not having the opportunity to pay the CAZ at a toll meant I literally forgot. We feel that forgetting isn't unlawful, being overwhelmed and not having the finances to pay a fine should not be unlawful. We think that charging somebody much more than the initial fee however should be!