Why bother with Fixed Penalty Notices?

• They provide enforcement agencies with an effective and visible way of responding to environmental crimes.

• They enable people who have broken the law to admit their liability and end the matter

• They free up officer time in not having to prepare court files for legal action

• They enable the legal department to focus on more serious cases

• They free up the courts

The legislation provides an authorised officer with the power to require the name and address of a person they wish to issue with a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN). In such cases failure to supply these details (or giving a false name and address) to an authorised officer is an offence for which a maximum fine of £1,000 may be given upon conviction. In such cases the wardens will take a photograph and may call the police for assistance in getting the correct details

• FPNs are only offered where there is adequate evidence to support a prosecution in the courts

• The wardens do not have any targets for issuing FPNs

• The monies from the fines are only used for education and prevention work and not to subsidise the service

Can I appeal my Fixed Penalty Notice?

An FPN is issued in lieu of prosecution. if you have received a FPN your only right of appeal is in a court. Upon receiving a FPN there are two options available

1. Pay the FPN within the 14 calendar days

2. Await the court summons or request a court hearing in writing

If you should fail to pay within 14 days, Leicester City Council will initiate court proceedings.

if you should request a court hearing, you will be required to attend court to have your case heard. You will need to consider the following:

• You may need to contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau for advice

• You may need to involve the services of a Solicitor

• You will need to consider the evidence that may be presented in the court in prosecution of the case

• If the court finds against you, you may be liable to a higher fine and a criminal record.

• If the court finds against you, you will be liable for court costs plus £15 victim surcharge 

Types of Fixed Penalty Notices