Legal information
Definition
Moving traffic enforcement means taking action when motorists do not follow traffic restrictions as outlined in a Traffic Regulation Order.
When traffic violations happen, the Traffic Management Act 2004 (TMA) provides a clear system that allows enforcement authorities (local authorities) to enforce traffic rules effectively and consistently.
Authorisation
Prohibited manoeuvres are created by Traffic Regulation Orders using powers under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984.
Enforcement
The Traffic Management Act 2004 gave approved local authorities the power to enforce traffic violations. On 22 July 2023, the Department for Transport gave Birmingham City Council the authority to carry out moving traffic enforcement.
Learn more about the Traffic Management Act 2004
Learn more about the Bus lane and moving traffic enforcement outside London
Fines
The Traffic Management Act 2004 provides the necessary powers to enable the Secretary of State, by regulations, to make provision for the imposition of penalty charges in respect of bus lane contraventions.
For Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) the Penalty Charge is £70. A 50% discount applies if the penalty charge is paid within 21 days from the date it is issued.
PCNs are issued under the Traffic Management Act 2004.
Appeals
Appeals against a PCN are called 'representations'. The Civil Enforcement of Road Traffic Contraventions (Approved Devices, Charging Guidelines and General Provisions) (England) Regulations 2022 list 7 grounds on which you may make representations to the council. In addition to these reasons, a motorist can also argue that there are special circumstances that should lead the council to cancel the penalty charge.
Learn more about the Civil Enforcement of Road Traffic Contraventions
Money collected from PCNs
Part 6, Chapter 2 of the Civil Enforcement of Road Traffic Contraventions (England) Regulations 2022 explains how the money from fines can be used. After covering the costs of running the system, any leftover money can be reinvested.
The report to the Cabinet, "Transportation and Highways Funding Strategy 2017/18 to 2022/23," explains how the extra money will be used to support road and traffic projects.
Learn more about Part 6, Chapter 2 of the Civil Enforcement of Road Traffic Contraventions
Page last updated: 2 March 2026
