A tow-away zone has been introduced at one of the region’s premier holiday destinations as part of a clampdown on illegal camping.
Noosa Council has implemented the initiative at the entrance to the Noosa National Park at Noosa Heads.
The car park at the Mitti Street and Park Road junction is now a tow-away zone between 10pm and 4am.
Council’s local laws manager Rob Smith said offenders would face tough consequences.
“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,” he said.
Council introduced a 10pm to 4am no-parking zone from Noosa Woods to Noosa Spit, another illegal camping hotspot, last year 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.”
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.
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“Officers have issued 40 fines to those deliberately flouting the rules in the last two weeks alone.”
Noosa Council stated that the area is well serviced by campgrounds with facilities equipped to accommodate vans.
Mr Smith said anyone considering setting up camp illegally, not just in high-profile car parks but any public areas throughout the shire, should take heed that they may get a fine or have their vehicle towed.
“Our officers could be undertaking patrols anywhere at any time,” he said.
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