Civil enforcement officer
Civil enforcement officers make sure drivers follow parking regulations on public streets and in car parks.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
As a civil enforcement officer, you'll:
- patrol streets and car parks and check parking tickets
- advise the public on local parking rules and facilities
- take details and pictures of incorrectly parked vehicles and issue Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs)
- report faults with parking meters and damage to road signs
- attend court or a tribunal if a parking ticket is being disputed
- work with police community support officers and the police to report crimes or anti-social behaviour
Working environment
You could work at a car park or on the streets.
Your working environment may be outdoors in all weathers and physically and emotionally demanding.
You may need to wear a uniform.
Career path and progression
With experience and further training you could become a:
- senior enforcement officer
- team supervisor
- parking manager
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to understand people’s reactions
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to work on your own
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- knowledge of public safety and security
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- legal knowledge including court procedures and government regulations
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Restrictions and Requirements
You may need a driving licence for some jobs.
How to become
You can get into this job by applying directly.
There are no set qualifications to become a civil enforcement officer.
Experience of working in a customer service role is highly valued and could help you get into this job.
Once you start work, your employer will provide training. This will cover subjects like:
- parking enforcement policy
- traffic regulations
- evidence collection
- permits, waivers and exemptions
Career tips
Some civil enforcement jobs can include environmental reporting, like littering or fly tipping.
Further information
You can find out more about working as a civil enforcement officer from the British Parking Association.
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This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.