By Alesha Capone
Wyndham council has issued more than $1 million in fines to vehicles parked on nature strips in a two-year period.
City operations director Stephen Thorpe said that between September 27, 2017 and September 27 this year, the council issued 8100 infringement notices to people parked on nature strips across residential, industrial and commercial areas in Wyndham. The fines amounted to $772,756 in total.
Mr Thorpe said that from September 27, 2016, to September 27, 2017, the council issued 3643 infringements notices totalling $341,631 to people parked on nature strips.
“Tarneit, Hoppers Crossing and Truganina were the suburbs where the majority of infringements were issued,” Mr Thorpe said.
Within Victoria, parking on a nature strip – or partially on a nature strip – is not permitted under municipal local laws unless there are signs giving permission to do so.
If residents wish to construct a parking bay on their nature strip, they must apply to their council for a permit.
“There are a number of reasons as to why people should not park on nature strips, whether it be in residential, commercial or industrial areas,” Mr Thorpe said.
“Cars parked near intersections or driveways can create safety issues if motorists can’t see past them.
“Vehicles can also damage underground services – such as water, gas, electrical and stormwater services – as well as the casing in which these services are contained.
“They also destroy grass and vegetation, cause ruts and carry mud and debris on to roads.”
Mr Thorpe said the fines were revenue for the council.
“Where fines are unpaid, they are referred to the state government through Fines Victoria, or are referred to court,” he said.
