Local officials are now formally asking residents in suburbs like Dee Why to report illegally parked boats, trailers, and caravans as part of a new strategy to reclaim local streets from long-term storage.
The new approach follows a unanimous vote by councillors to address what has become one of the most complained-about issues in the community. The plan was confirmed after a council meeting this month, which addressed ongoing safety and parking concerns.
A Formal System for Complaints
Council will develop a strategy that encourages the community to identify and report “hot spots” where boats, trailers, and caravans are left for extended periods. This may include a dedicated online form, which would be promoted through community newsletters and social media to streamline the process.
Once a location is identified as a problem area, council rangers will increase patrols or install “Motor Vehicles Only” signage to prioritise street parking for residents’ cars. Independent councillor Vincent De Luca stated that the area is effectively being used as a car park for boats and storage trailers, creating significant issues. He explained that large craft and trailers often obstruct drivers’ vision, leading to accidents. Greens councillor Kristyn Glanville added that the goal is to address safety issues and ensure residents can park their cars, rather than having streets used for long-term vehicle storage.
Scope of the Problem
The move comes after Council received 288 complaints last financial year about parked trailers and boats causing road safety problems and being a visual nuisance. A staff report identified Cromer and Collaroy as the suburbs with the highest number of complaints, though waterside areas like Bayview are also affected. There are approximately 17,000 registered boat trailers, box trailers, and caravans across the Northern Beaches, with some vehicles parked long-term belonging to owners from outside the local government area.
In the 2024/25 period, rangers have already impounded 10 boat trailers and 14 other trailers, mostly for being in disrepair or not having number plates. Council also issued 43 fines for abandoned vehicles and 240 for unregistered trailers.
State Rules and a Push for Change
Under current NSW Government rules, a registered vehicle left unattended in one spot for more than 28 days can be reported. If a vehicle is causing an obstruction or safety risk, it must be moved immediately. Council can issue a $660 fine if owners fail to move their vehicles within the specified timeframes after being notified.
In addition to the new reporting strategy, Council will prepare a submission to the state government. It will ask for a review of current road rules to allow for tougher penalties and the potential introduction of a local parking permit scheme to further discourage the practice.
Published Date 03-July-2025
