Are you making this expensive parking mistake? This ‘unfair’ rule could set you back $387!
- Replies 14
Navigating the congested streets of Australia's towns and cities can often feel like a Herculean task, especially when it comes to finding that elusive parking spot.
It's a daily struggle that resonates with many, whether we're in the heart of a bustling central business district (CBD) or the quieter suburban lanes.
But there's a twist in this tale of parking woes that might catch some Australian drivers off guard, potentially leaving a hefty $387 dent in their wallets.
Imagine this: after a long day, you finally arrive home only to find that every legal parking space is taken. You decide to park across your own driveway, reasoning that you can't be inconveniencing anyone but yourself.
However, this act could land you in hot water with the authorities.
This is exactly what happened to Sydney resident Liz Troy. This mother-of-four was stunned to discover a parking infringement notice tucked under her windscreen wiper for parking across her own driveway.
‘I couldn't believe it when I saw it was an infringement notice. I know ignorance of the law is no excuse, but the car wasn't blocking the footpath or someone's access,’ she said.
The law notes that it is illegal to park across any driveway, even your own.
The rationale behind this rule is to ensure 24/7 access to properties, but for many Australians, this comes as a surprise.
Journalist Adam Lucius stated: ‘It's the little-known and unfair law catching out hundreds of Australians every day.’
Liz's frustration was compounded when she learned that the fine was issued following a complaint from a neighbour.
‘That was probably the most disappointing part… that someone in your street would be that petty as to make an official complaint,’ she expressed.
Even Australian television personality Kerri-Anne Kennerley fell victim to this obscure regulation, receiving a fine and demerit points for parking across her driveway in a school zone.
Although her fine was eventually overturned due to her need to assist her disabled husband, not everyone is so fortunate.
Transport New South Wales has confirmed the strict nature of these laws, emphasising that they are in place to prevent obstruction of driveways.
A spokesperson said: ‘It is an offence to park across a driveway regardless of whether the driveway in question leads into the residence, workplace or some other property that the driver is associated with.’
‘It is illegal to stop or park across or otherwise obstruct access to a driveway in NSW.’
‘Drivers may only stop or park across a driveway if they are dropping off or picking up passengers, do not leave the vehicle unattended (or) complete the dropping off or picking up and resume driving within two minutes of stopping,’ they explained.
The penalties are steep: a standard fine of $302, which could increase to $387 and includes a two demerit point penalty if the offence occurs in a school zone.
These laws empower police and council rangers to address and deter the obstruction of driveways, which can become a significant issue in areas where parking is at a premium.
‘In locations where parking is scarce, drivers of vehicles parking across and obstructing driveways can be a serious problem and this offence allows police and council rangers to take corrective action to discourage and correct this activity by drivers,’ the spokesperson shared.
So, members, consider this a friendly warning to remain vigilant about where you park, even at home. It's a peculiar aspect of the law that many might not be aware of, but it can lead to an unexpected and costly surprise.
We'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences on this matter. Have you or someone you know been fined for parking across a driveway? Share your stories and tips in the comments below!
It's a daily struggle that resonates with many, whether we're in the heart of a bustling central business district (CBD) or the quieter suburban lanes.
But there's a twist in this tale of parking woes that might catch some Australian drivers off guard, potentially leaving a hefty $387 dent in their wallets.
Imagine this: after a long day, you finally arrive home only to find that every legal parking space is taken. You decide to park across your own driveway, reasoning that you can't be inconveniencing anyone but yourself.
However, this act could land you in hot water with the authorities.
A little-known parking rule could land Aussie drivers a $387 fine. Image source: Pexels
This is exactly what happened to Sydney resident Liz Troy. This mother-of-four was stunned to discover a parking infringement notice tucked under her windscreen wiper for parking across her own driveway.
‘I couldn't believe it when I saw it was an infringement notice. I know ignorance of the law is no excuse, but the car wasn't blocking the footpath or someone's access,’ she said.
The law notes that it is illegal to park across any driveway, even your own.
The rationale behind this rule is to ensure 24/7 access to properties, but for many Australians, this comes as a surprise.
Journalist Adam Lucius stated: ‘It's the little-known and unfair law catching out hundreds of Australians every day.’
Liz's frustration was compounded when she learned that the fine was issued following a complaint from a neighbour.
‘That was probably the most disappointing part… that someone in your street would be that petty as to make an official complaint,’ she expressed.
Even Australian television personality Kerri-Anne Kennerley fell victim to this obscure regulation, receiving a fine and demerit points for parking across her driveway in a school zone.
Although her fine was eventually overturned due to her need to assist her disabled husband, not everyone is so fortunate.
Transport New South Wales has confirmed the strict nature of these laws, emphasising that they are in place to prevent obstruction of driveways.
A spokesperson said: ‘It is an offence to park across a driveway regardless of whether the driveway in question leads into the residence, workplace or some other property that the driver is associated with.’
‘It is illegal to stop or park across or otherwise obstruct access to a driveway in NSW.’
‘Drivers may only stop or park across a driveway if they are dropping off or picking up passengers, do not leave the vehicle unattended (or) complete the dropping off or picking up and resume driving within two minutes of stopping,’ they explained.
The penalties are steep: a standard fine of $302, which could increase to $387 and includes a two demerit point penalty if the offence occurs in a school zone.
These laws empower police and council rangers to address and deter the obstruction of driveways, which can become a significant issue in areas where parking is at a premium.
‘In locations where parking is scarce, drivers of vehicles parking across and obstructing driveways can be a serious problem and this offence allows police and council rangers to take corrective action to discourage and correct this activity by drivers,’ the spokesperson shared.
So, members, consider this a friendly warning to remain vigilant about where you park, even at home. It's a peculiar aspect of the law that many might not be aware of, but it can lead to an unexpected and costly surprise.
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