Residents lash out at council over little-known road rule attracting $387 fine
Many drivers have admitted they had no idea the parking rule existed, with some residents in this council area demanding a change.
An Aussie council has reminded residents of a little-known road rule that attracts a hefty fine if caught, however, its confusing nature has some demanding a change.
Unbroken yellow edge lines marked on roads throughout the south Sydney region indicate 'no stopping' zones, Bayside Council reiterated this week. They have replaced traditional red 'No stopping' signs regularly spotted on Aussie roads.
The yellow markings have been in use across the LGA on clearways for a long time, council confirmed to Yahoo News Australia, but have been appearing on more streets throughout the area as council completes its rollout.
They were first introduced on Aussie roads in 1999 and are enforceable under the same rules as ‘No Stopping’ signs, which means NSW drivers who park where one is present could face a $275 fine. Even more, $387 and 2 demerit points, if in a school zone.
"Police and Council Parking Officers can enforce these road rules," they warned.
Residents demand return of traditional 'no stopping' signs
According to NSW road rule 169, 'no stopping on a road with a yellow edge line', "a driver must not stop at the side of a road marked with a continuous yellow edge line". Additionally, a driver "must not stop on a road within 10 metres from the nearest point of an intersecting road at an intersection without traffic lights" — an example of this is shown in the image shared by council.
But residents say the yellow lines "just don't work". Some have demanded council bring back traditional signage which properly alerts drivers about no parking areas. Many say it's just an "easy way" for council to issue more fines.
Yellow lines help to reduce 'visual clutter' on roads
Speaking of its decision to swap traditional signage for the yellow road markings, council said it was "to address the visual clutter associated with sign proliferation throughout the LGA".
"The yellow line marking has been in use across Bayside LGA in select locations and on clearways for a long time, however due to the recent decision it will become more widespread," the council said.
Bayside Council will continue to roll out an education campaign encouraging motorists to get up to speed with what they mean.
The rule applies nationwide but it appears many drivers aren't entirely sure what they mean either. "We regularly hear from NRMA members who have never heard of the rule before," the NRMA wrote on their website.
Fines for stopping on a yellow line
New South Wales – $275 or more ($387 and two demerit points in a school zone)
Queensland – up to $309
Victoria – up to $192
South Australia – up to $210
Western Australia – up to $200
Northern Territory – $80 or more
Australian Capital Territory – up to 20 penalty units ($3200)
Tasmania – up to $975
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