Brisbane motorists have been observed obscuring their license plates with items such as plastic sheets, camping chairs, and dishcloths in an attempt to evade parking fines. This practice follows an expansion of the Brisbane City Council's automated camera system, which has led to nearly $35 million in infringement notices being issued this year.
The 24/7 cameras, deployed to monitor vehicles parked illegally in clearways, no stopping zones, bus zones, loading zones, and on yellow lines, were initially introduced in four key Brisbane locations in early 2025. By November, their reach extended to over 40 sites across the city.
A spokesperson for the Brisbane City Council acknowledged the tactic and reiterated the importance of adhering to parking regulations. "Our officers can undertake patrols on foot to determine what's required on a case-by-case basis," the spokesperson told the ABC. While covering a vehicle's registration plate is illegal, the council does not possess the authority to penalize drivers for this specific offense. That authority rests with the Queensland Police Service (QPS).
According to QPS guidelines, license plates must be clearly visible from a 45-degree angle in all directions at a distance of 20 meters. Failure to comply, including plates obscured by accessories like bull bars or tow bars, or covered by any material, can result in a fine. The Queensland Government states that it is the driver's responsibility to ensure their license plates are visible, maintained in good condition, and clearly legible.
Drivers attempting to conceal their license plates risk a $341 fine, with the potential for court-imposed penalties reaching $6,452. These warnings come as the cameras have captured over 8,000 instances of parking violations, leading to infringement notices. Notably, more than 3,000 of these notices were issued on Graham Street in South Brisbane and Park Road in Milton, areas close to the central business district.
Across Brisbane this year, the council's parking enforcement efforts have resulted in over 176,000 infringement notices. Mobile enforcement vehicles alone accounted for nearly 100,000 of these fines.
Councillor Sarah Hutton, Civic Cabinet Chair for Customer Services, stated that the camera system is intended to deter illegal parking and alleviate congestion on busy roads. "When a vehicle parks illegally in a clearway, no stopping zone or bus zone, it causes delays for thousands of people trying to reach their destinations," she explained. "Even a short stop in the wrong place can have a big impact on traffic flow and safety."