Apply for a trader parking permit (scratchcards)

When clearly displayed in a vehicle, scratch cards enable a trader to park in a resident parking permit bay.

There is no limit to the number of trader scratchcards you can buy. However, we will assess each application on an individual basis.

Before you start

We request payment with your application to ensure that we can process successful applications as quickly as possible.

Should your application be refused we will let you know why and will refund any payment back to the card you paid with. If you paid by cheque the cheque will be destroyed securely.

Check your eligibility

• Your property must be within a Controlled Parking Zone.
• You must not have another trader parking account, such as Pay As You Go.
• Your property must be eligible for a permit under the Town and Country Planning Act.

What you will need

Before you begin your application you will need to ensure:

• you are eligible and have read the legal guidance;
• you have proof of address and a valid reason for parking provision;
• you have a valid credit or debit card to make payment.

Accepted proofs

You will need proof to show you have a valid reason for a trader parking permit. All proofs must show the address of where the works are taking place.

You can also upload a scanned or digital copy of one of the following:

• Copy of quote for works
• Letter from resident
• Copy of architect plans

Sending proofs by post

If you do not have access to a scanner or a digital camera, you can still apply online but you will need to post a copy of your proofs to: Parking Permits, PO Box 466, Twickenham TW1 9JT.

You must clearly mark all items with your online application reference number, which you will receive once you submit your online application (for example FSXXXXXXX).

Only send in copies of proofs as these will not be returned, they will be securely destroyed.

Submit your application and pay

We request payment with your application to ensure that we can process successful applications as quickly as possible. You will need a valid credit or debit card in order to complete your online application.

Should your application be refused we will let you know why and will refund any payment back to the card you paid with.

To find out how much you will need to pay for your permit, visit trader parking permit costs.

Paying by cheque or postal order

To pay by cheque or postal order, you will need to download and complete an application form (pdf, 159 KB) (pdf, 184 KB). You must return this along with a cheque or postal order payable to 'LBRuT' and all required proofs to: Parking Permits, PO Box 466, Twickenham TW1 9JT.

All posted applications must be signed. Unsigned forms or those without proofs will not be processed, we will send these back to you requesting the missing information. This will delay your permit.

Failed payments

Bounced cheques or failed card payments due to insufficient funds will invalidate any permit(s) issued and will incur a £10 administration fee. 

What happens next

During your application you can choose whether you want your scratchcards:

• posted to the address where the works are taking place;
• posted to the trader's address; or
• made available to collect in person, either from the Civic Centre or a local library.

Delivery by post

If you opt to receive your scratchcards by post, they should arrive within 10 working days. If you have not received them after this time, you can contact us on 020 8891 1411 during office hours, or email parkingpermits@richmond.gov.uk.

Collecting in person

If you opt to collect your scratchcards in person, we will notify you when they are ready to collect by phone or email. This is normally within 10 working days but can be longer for libraries.

You will need to provide proof of the trader's name and address and will be asked to sign a collection confirmation slip. If you do not collect your scratchcards within 14 days of the notification date, then they will automatically be posted to the trader's address, via standard Royal Mail delivery.

When you get your new permit

When you receive your scratchcard booklet you will need to ensure each scratchcard is validated and displayed correctly. Failure to do so could result in the issue of a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN). Read our guide to find out how to use trader permit scratchcards.

Start my application