Frequently asked questions

1. When was CCTV introduced to Westminster?

Enforcement of yellow lines, moving traffic contraventions and bus lanes by CCTV started in November 2005.

2. What contraventions do the CCTV cameras enforce?

CCTV cameras enforce contraventions on yellow lines and vehicles contravening waiting and loading restrictions. They are also used to enforce moving traffic contraventions such as bus lanes and box junctions as well as coach bans and banned turns.

3. Is CCTV enforcement available in the entire borough?

Not at present. CCTV cameras are currently being rolled out and will eventually be used in the entire borough. CCTV-equipped smart cars can be allocated to duties anywhere within Westminster.

4. I've received a PCN in the post. Can I view the images that relate to my PCN?

You can either view images related to your PCN online or at the a Your One Stop Express location as follows:

To view ONLINE, you will require your PCN number and Vehicle Registration Number. For speed and ease of use we recommend that you use this option.

To view at a One Stop Express Machine, you will require your PCN number and Vehicle Registration Number.

Please click here for a list of Your One Stop Express locations and opening times.

5. What is the difference between a PCN issued by a Civil Enforcement Officer and a PCN issued by CCTV?

This depends on the type of PCN issued. Moving traffic contravention PCNs and Bus Lane PCNs are issued under different legislation to parking contravention PCNs. The main differences are

• PCNs issued by CCTV are sent at a later date to the keeper of the vehicle by post, whereas a Civil Enforcement Officer attaches the PCN to the vehicle at the time of the contravention.
• CCTV is used to enforce parking contraventions, bus lanes and moving traffic contraventions, whereas Civil Enforcement Officers only enforce parking contraventions.
  
  Take a look at more information on what to do next if you have been issued with a PCN.

6. What are the other benefits of CCTV?

• Reduces traffic congestion
• Improves journey times for bus users
• Allows the free flow of traffic
• Keeps bus lanes clear in order to prevent delays for commuters
• Penalises inconsiderate motorists
• Acts as a visible car crime deterrent
• Increases Civil Enforcement Officer safety (provides evidence of any abuse)
• Helps reduce accidents

7. Can the cameras be used to look into offices and homes of surrounding buildings?

The Council does not install privacy zones as a matter of course but will do so on receipt of a written request from a member of the public and where the privacy zone will not interfere with any on-going Community Protection or Metropolitan Police operations.

'Privacy Zones' are blacked out grids that appear in the CCTV image if a camera passes over the window of an office or private residence. This makes it impossible for our CCTV Operators to look into windows of offices and homes in surrounding buildings.

Our Operators are instructed not to look into private areas as part of their initial and on-going training; they are fully aware of their duty of care obligations to the public under the Data Protection Act. Furthermore, their every action is recorded onto the camera footage and disciplinary action would be taken against any individual attempting to do so.

8. Is CCTV enforcement in operation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week?

Yes, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

9. Will the cameras also be used to spot crime and other incidents?

Our cameras will be a shared resource that will also be used to help keep the streets safe by providing intelligence to our Westminster Wardens and the police.

10. Is this the end of the Parking Attendant?

No. CCTV will operate in tandem with our Civil Enforcement Officer. All other restrictions, particularly those associated with paid-for parking places, will be enforced by on-street Civil Enforcement Officers as per usual. Cameras are an additional enforcement method but Parking Attendants will continue to perform an important on-street role. Civil Enforcement Officers will be redeployed into streets that could benefit from additional enforcement.

CCTV Vehicles

1. How many Smart Cars are there in the borough?

We currently have four Smart Cars.

2. What types of contraventions will the Smart Cars be enforcing?

The Smart Cars enforce single and double yellow line restrictions, bus lanes, box junctions and other moving traffic contraventions

3. Will the Smart Cars have to be parked legally?

The vehicles have Parking Identifier Boards which exempt parking on paid for parking places, resident bays, and single and double yellow lines. They may not park anywhere else and only obtain the exemption by means of carrying out a statutory function. The drivers have been properly trained and will park with the utmost care and attention to road safety and the highway code.