How to Appeal a Bus Lane PCN (2025)

Bus lane PCNs are among the most frequently issued traffic fines in the UK — but they’re also one of the easiest to overturn when you know the rules. Councils rely heavily on automated cameras, but the law around bus lanes is strict, and councils routinely make mistakes with signage, markings, road layout and CCTV evidence.
 
This guide gives you the exact steps, arguments and evidence you need to challenge a Bus Lane PCN successfully. It’s written to maximise your chances of winning your appeal and to position Smart Appeal as a trusted authority for UK drivers.

When you can appeal a bus lane PCN 

You can appeal a bus lane fine if any of the following apply:
 
The signage was unclear or non-compliant
A bus lane must have:
- Clear advance warning signs
- Correct blue “bus lane” signs at the start
- Legible road markings
- Visible timeplates showing operating hours
 
Your PCN may be invalid if:
- Signs were blocked by trees or buses
- Markings were faded
- Signs appeared after the lane began
- The advance warning sign was missing
 
You entered to turn left.
The law allows drivers to enter the bus lane shortly before a left turn.
 
You entered the lane to avoid danger
You are legally allowed to move into a bus lane if necessary to avoid:
- A collision
- An obstruction
- A pedestrian
- Emergency vehicles
- Sudden braking

The CCTV does not show the full contravention
A valid Bus Lane PCN MUST show:
- The entry into the lane
- Continuous movement
- Why you stopped or stayed in the lane
 
Two still pictures are not enough.
 
The timeplates were wrong or inconsistent
If the sign shows: 7am–7pm and the PCN time is: 6:50am or 7:10pm then the PCN must be cancelled.
 
The road layout was confusing or forced you into for example:
- Lanes that suddenly narrow
- Merged lanes with unclear arrows
- Bus lanes beginning immediately after traffic lights
 
What Evidence You Should Gather
 
Collect:
- Photos of all signs from your viewpoint
- Photos of road markings
- Photos showing obstructions (trees, buses, vans)
- A screenshot or copy of the full CCTV video
- A photo of the left turn (if applicable)

How To Write a Bus Lane Appeal

 
Start with your PCN details  
Include PCN number and vehicle registration. Explain why the contravention did not occur  
Examples:
- “The signage was unclear and not visible.”
- “The video does not show the entry into the lane.”
- “I entered solely to turn left.”
 
Add your evidence  
Attach photos, screenshots and timestamps.
 

Reference failures  
Example: 
“The timeplate was hidden behind a tree, meaning the restriction was not visible from the driver’s position.”
 
Ask for cancellation  
“I request this PCN be cancelled due to the evidence and statutory requirements.”