Tow-away zone introduced as illegal camping blitz continues

Parking bays at the Mitti Street / Park Road junction, Noosa Heads, will become a tow-away zone between 10pm and 4am, starting today. 

Signs are now in place at the parking bays at the junction of Mitti Street and Park Road Noosa Heads advising of the 10pm-4am tow-away zone.

It’s the latest tool to be deployed in Noosa Council’s effort to curb illegal camping.

“Illegal campers in breach of these restrictions could have their vehicle towed away and they’ll face significant costs to recover it, not to mention the inconvenience of being without transport while it is impounded,” Local Laws Manager Rob Smith said.

Last year Council introduced the 10pm to 4am no-parking zone through Noosa Woods up to Noosa Spit – another illegal camping hotspot – with positive results.

“Illegal campers often leave rubbish behind showing a total disregard for the area and the environment,” Mr Smith said.

“We have seen good results from the extra patrols we have been undertaking over the summer months but are still seeing high numbers of illegal campers when we would expect to see the numbers reduce as we move into the winter months,” Mr Smith said.

If effective, Council will consider extending time-limited parking and tow-away zones to other problem areas.

“Our target remains those who willfully ignore the restrictions and continue to prevent residents and visitors from enjoying our most popular and beautiful areas,” Mr Smith said.

“Illegal camping reduces parking availability which impacts residents. Officers have issued 40 fines to those deliberately flouting the rules in the last two weeks alone.”

Noosa is well serviced with campgrounds with facilities equipped to accommodate vans.

Mr Smith said anyone considering setting up camp illegally – not just in high profile carparks but any public areas throughout the shire – should take heed they may get a fine or at worst have their vehicle towed.

“Our officers could be undertaking patrols anywhere at any time.”