The CMA has opened a probe into private parking charges at petrol stations.
Why it matters: The review could affect how private parking charges are enforced at forecourts, including short stops for fuel and car washes. It also adds pressure on operators as the government tightens oversight of the sector.
- On July 16, 2026, the Competition and Markets Authority said it is investigating parking charges at petrol stations.
- The probe will look at charges issued while drivers queue for fuel or use forecourt services such as car washes.
- The CMA is also reviewing Euro Car Parks' appeals handling and plans to write to other operators and trade groups about appeals and extra fees.
- The government says the private parking system lacks independent oversight and transparency, and ticket volumes reached about 14.4 million in 2024/25.
On July 16, 2026, the UK Competition and Markets Authority said it is looking at whether it is fair for drivers to receive parking charges while queuing for, or using, petrol station services such as car washes. CMA announcement
The regulator said it will also examine Euro Car Parks' appeals processes and contact other private parking operators and trade associations about appeals handling and additional fees.
The move comes as the government continues to press for changes in the private parking sector. In its private parking code materials, the government says the current system lacks independent oversight and sufficient transparency. It also says the number of parking charges issued reached a record high in 2024/25. Government private parking code materials
The CMA said private parking operators issued about 14.4 million tickets in 2024/25. The new probe extends scrutiny beyond traditional car park enforcement into forecourt activity, where drivers may stop briefly for fuel or related services.
Euro Car Parks has also faced prior enforcement action. In February 2026, the CMA fined the company £473,000 for failing to comply with a legal information notice. CMA fine notice
The government's private parking code of practice took effect on October 31, 2024, and existing industry members are in a transition period until December 31, 2026.
By the numbers
- 14.4 million - private parking tickets issued in 2024/25, according to the government and CMA
- £473,000 - CMA fine imposed on Euro Car Parks in February 2026 for failing to comply with a legal information notice
- December 31, 2026 - end of the current transition period for existing industry members under the code
Yes, but: The CMA's announcement does not say the probe will lead to immediate rule changes or penalties for forecourt operators.
What's next: The CMA said it will contact other private parking operators and trade associations about appeals handling and extra fees.