Know the rules around illegal camping and parking these holidays

We’re reminding everyone of the rules around illegal camping and parking these summer holidays, especially over the busy Christmas and New Year’s Eve period.

Over the next few months, Council’s Compliance Officers will be out and about in the community to discourage illegal camping and dangerous parking. It’s important that people do the right thing as these rules are in place to make our beaches, reserves, footpaths and streets safe for everyone.

What are the rules?

• Shade structures and tents are allowed during the day but must be down by 8pm.
• Dangerous parking is not allowed at any time. That means not parking on the grass reserves, median strips or in any other prohibited and unsafe locations.

“Council is anticipating a lot of people visiting our beaches and outdoor spaces, especially over Christmas and New Year’s Eve. We love our beaches, reserves and parks and these rules are in place to keep people safe and to limit the damage to our public spaces,” Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said.

“Please follow the rules and listen to the advice of Council’s Compliance Officers. That means pulling your shade structures or tents down by 8pm each day and parking and driving responsibly. Our staff will be working over the holidays to ensure community members and visitors to the area are aware that these rules are in place.”

Penalties may apply for both dangerous and illegal parking as well as camping and staying overnight in prohibited locations.

“The other message we have for people is to please do the right thing with your rubbish. Help us keep our natural areas beautiful for the next person by putting your rubbish in the many bins provided,” Cr Bradbery said.

“If the bin is full or you can’t find one in arms-reach, take your rubbish home with you! The same goes for sporting equipment, shade structures, towels and other picnic items. Take whatever you bring with you to the beach, home with you.”

If you see someone doing the wrong thing, you can report it to Council using our online form or by calling the out of hours phone on (02) 4227 7111.