About this bus lane
Site EX004. Bus lane introduced 1994; applies Monday to Friday 8am–9.15am.
Reserved for buses, taxis, private hire vehicles and cycles. ANPR enforcement began 8 Dec 2025; full PCN enforcement since 1 July 2026.
Who can use it
- Buses
- Taxis
- Private hire vehicles
- Cycles
Not permitted
- Cars
- Vans
- Lorries
- Motorcycles
Where exactly is it?
Cowick Street, between opposite St Thomas Church and the junction with Buller Road, Exeter. View on Google Maps →
Got a PCN from this camera?
Don't panic, and don't ignore it. Pay £35 within 21 days to halve the charge — or if the signage was unclear, the details are wrong, or you had a genuine reason to be in the lane, consider challenging it first. Our step-by-step appeal guide covers the grounds that actually win.
Frequently asked questions
What are the operating times of the Cowick Street bus lane?
The Cowick Street Bus Lane in Exeter operates Monday to Friday, 8am to 9.15am. Outside these hours, general traffic may use the road normally.
How much is the fine for driving through the Cowick Street bus lane?
Devon County Council issues a Penalty Charge Notice of £70, reduced to £35 if paid within 21 days. There are no penalty points — it is a civil penalty.
Who is allowed to use the Cowick Street bus lane?
Buses, taxis, private hire vehicles and cycles are permitted. Not permitted: cars, vans, lorries and motorcycles.
Can I appeal a PCN from the Cowick Street bus lane?
Yes, and it costs nothing. Make formal representations to Devon County Council first — the authority that issued the PCN has to consider them before it can enforce the penalty. If Devon County Council rejects them it must issue a Notice of Rejection, and you can then appeal free to the Traffic Penalty Tribunal. Its adjudicators are lawyers independent of the enforcing authority, and their decision is binding on both sides. The grounds that win here are that your vehicle was not in the bus lane during its operating times (Mon–Fri 8–9.15am), that it was an exempt vehicle, or that the signage did not make the restriction clear. Note that paying the £35 discounted rate accepts liability and closes the case, so challenge before you pay.