Australian Motorists Fined for Blocking Driveway Footpaths
Authorities in New South Wales remind drivers that parking across footpaths can result in significant fines and public criticism.
Motorists in New South Wales, Australia, are facing fines and public backlash for parking their vehicles across footpaths while accessing their driveways. Transport for NSW (TfNSW) recently highlighted this illegal practice on social media, prompting a wave of criticism from the public.
A TfNSW Facebook post posed the question, "Can you park across a footpath if it crosses your own driveway?" The response from many users was clear: it is against the law.
Comments on the post expressed frustration with drivers who obstruct pedestrian access. One user stated, "Park like it if you want to get a fine," while another emphasized the safety concerns, saying, "That's a big NO, think about the person trying to see what's coming up the road." A third commenter called the act "Selfishly blocking the path has always been Illegal."
A spokesperson for the Canterbury-Bankstown Council confirmed to Yahoo News that fines for this offense can reach hundreds of dollars. Specifically, stopping on a path or strip in a built-up area can incur a $339 fine. This penalty increases to $434, along with two demerit points, if the offense occurs within school zone provisions.
Similar regulations are in place across Australia, though the exact penalties may vary by location.
TfNSW clarified that parking a car across a footpath is prohibited, even if it crosses a private driveway, as it can force pedestrians, including those with prams or mobility devices, onto the road. However, drivers are permitted to stop momentarily in a driveway for dropping off or picking up passengers, provided they remain with the vehicle and do not stop for more than two minutes.
