Civil Enforcement Officers
Our Civil Enforcement Officers use hand held computers as part of their enforcement role for both instant ticket issuing and in areas where there is limited waiting parking - for example 2 hours stay with no return the same day. In limited waiting areas, vehicle registration numbers can be entered into the computer and again after the allowed parking time has elapsed. The computer will inform the officer if the vehicle has exceeded its time and allow him / her to issue a penalty charge notice. In addition each officer carries a digital camera. The Civil Enforcement Officer can photograph any parking contravention, and the photograph can be used as evidence in the event of an appeal against a Penalty Charge Notice.
Civil Enforcement Officers are trained to assist members of the public with their requests for information and advice. However, they cannot withdraw a notice once it has been issued or commenced. Once a notice has been issued, there is an appeals procedure which is indicated on the reverse of the notice. Only our representations team have the the authority to withdraw a notice on appeal once they have considered the merits of the appeal.
Support
There have been several cases of assaults against Parking Attendants and Civil Enforcement Officers in recent years, resulting in criminal convictions in the courts for the assailants. Civil Enforcement Officers have a difficult job to perform in making sure that we all comply with parking regulations. Southampton City Council will fully support criminal proceedings against members of the public who threaten or assault its staff.
New powers
New measures to tackle abuse of the Blue Badge scheme for disabled people came into force from 29 September 2006. The police, traffic wardens, local authority Civil Enforcement Officers are now able to inspect blue badges as part of their other parking enforcement functions. It will be an offence if a person refuses (without reasonable excuse) to produce a badge for inspection, punishable on conviction by a fine of up to £1000.
Last updated: 1 April 2008
