Hobart drivers face a higher risk of being fined for stopping across driveways in the CBD, with the city council ramping up enforcement this week.
From Wednesday, City of Hobart parking officers began “proactively” patrolling the CBD for vehicles blocking driveways, rather than only responding to complaints.
The rule itself isn’t new. The council says stopping on or across a driveway – including your own – has always been illegal in Australia.
What has changed is how often drivers are likely to get caught.
The council said the shift was about fairness and consistency.
“Historically, enforcement has been largely reactive and in response to complaints,” it said.
“This approach has led to inconsistent outcomes and confusion about the legality of parking in driveways.”
The council received 435 complaints about blocked driveways in a single year.
Three-quarters of those were linked to CBD properties, which is why patrols will focus there.
Residential areas will still be handled on a complaints basis, the council said.
Under Tasmanian road rules, drivers cannot stop across a driveway unless they are actively dropping off or picking up passengers.
They must remain with the vehicle and move on within two minutes.
Parking legally in a marked bay near a driveway is still allowed.
The council said blocked driveways are a safety issue, not just a nuisance.
“Emergency services may need clear access to your driveway in an emergency situation,” it said.
“Fast and efficient access to houses and businesses can prove critical in life threatening situations.”
The council also warned that vehicles parked across driveways can create blind spots and prevent drivers from seeing oncoming traffic.
