Driver cops a $283 penalty over little-known parking rule in Sydney

A Sydney motorist has been left frustrated after they received a substantial fine for unknowingly violating a lesser-known parking rule right in front of their own home.

The resident of Seaforth, an expensive suburb nestled in Sydney’s northern beaches,  parked their car on the nature strip this past Saturday. 

But upon returning to their vehicle later that night, they were greeted with a disheartening sight — a hefty parking fine notice amounting to $283. 

A photo of the notice from Northern Beaches Council states the offence was stopping on a path/strip in a built-up area.

The resident turned to social media seeking advice from a community Facebook group and whether they should contest the fine.

The Seaforth resident wanted to dispute the council fine (pictured) for parking on the nature strip outside their home

‘Does anyone know if I can dispute this?’ they posted.

‘I park on the grass in front of my property, which is our land.’

They quickly discovered from members in the group that they had no case and had broken the law. 

The resident was unaware that the nature strip between a residential property boundary and adjacent road is owned by the local council.

‘Ensure your car is within the front boundary of the property or parked safely in the street,’ Northern Beaches Council’s parking guide states.

The resident soon discovered that the council ranger was within their rights to issue a $283 parking fine (stock image of a parking ranger)

The same rules applies when parking across a driveway obscuring pedestrian safety and access.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted the council for further comment. 

Driving and parking a vehicle on footpaths and nature strips is illegal in NSW.

Similar rules apply  South Australia, Queensland and Victoria.

In Western Australia, drivers can park on the nature strip in several council areas if they have permission from the adjoining landowner/occupier.