Illegal camping & parking targeted by Council rangers over Christmas and New Year’s – Wollongong

Council Compliance Officers will be cracking down on illegal camping and dangerous parking over the Christmas and New Year’s break at our beaches, reserves and parks.

That means think again before you decide to camp illegally at any of our public spaces. While shade structures or tents are allowed during the day, they must be down by 8pm. At the same time, drivers should not park on grass reserves, median strips or other prohibited and unsafe locations.

“We’re anticipating higher numbers of people on our beaches, parks and reserves as the summer weather encourages people to make the most of our beautiful environment,” Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said.

“These spaces are for everyone to enjoy safely and there is no excuse for camping illegally or parking dangerously or inappropriately. We all need to share these spaces and do the right thing so we can all have a fun, enjoyable and safe summer.”

Camping and staying overnight at parks or reserves is prohibited and Council Compliance Officers will work to ensure visitors are aware of these restrictions. Penalties apply for dangerous and illegal parking practices and camping and staying overnight in prohibited locations is not on.

“Our community values their natural environment and want to see these spaces protected and cared for. Camping is prohibited to limit damage to our reserves and parks,” Cr Bradbery said.

“At the same time, more people mean busier roads and more pedestrians and cyclists using our shared paths and cycleways. It’s important that all drivers do the right thing and park safely and sensibly so to cause the least disruption to others.

“We hope you enjoy the summer and stay safe. Remember when you visit Wollongong to park safely, and make sure any tents and shade structures are down by 8pm. If you want to camp, make sure you reserve a spot in one of our local camping grounds or tourist parks.

“If you’re driving into the Wollongong CBD or to one of our busier beaches, consider alternative methods of travel. We’ve recently upgraded sections of footpaths and cycleways as part of our commitment as a Bike City. It’s never been easier to walk or ride a bike around Wollongong or in our suburbs.”

/Public Release. View in full here.