Council stands by $300 parking fine despite tree covering 'no stopping' sign
The frustrated driver said the sign was 'completely out of sight' when he copped a fine, but now council has cut it back.
A motorist was fined $300 for pulling over in a "no stopping" zone despite being unable to see the sign as it was obscured by a bushy tree. The tree has since been cut back to reveal the sign and the council is standing by the penalty after the driver attempted to contest it.
City of Sydney Council issued the fine to Juan after he pulled over among a line of cars along William Street in the city's CBD, outside the Australian Museum, in February to let a friend out — which the ranger considered a "stop".
Not seeing the parking sign due to the large tree growing in front of it, Juan contested the fine and supplied images showing it was obscured.
"How are drivers supposed to know we can't do something if the sign is completely out of sight, in this case by a tree planted by the council?" Juan told 9News. "The last sign you can see when driving towards the intersection is a parking sign, so you would naturally think it is possible to stop after that."
Despite his arguments, the frustrated driver's appeal was rejected and he was told "the issuing officer has noted the signs were clear" — though since then, City of Sydney staff has stripped the tree back.
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When Yahoo News Australia asked the City of Sydney if they had pruned the tree following the fine appeal they did not directly answer, but a spokesperson said "City rangers and tree inspectors proactively report signs that are obstructed by vegetation" and once reported the necessary maintenance will be carried out.
"It is a motorist’s responsibility to always park legally," they told Yahoo. "If motorists believe a mistake has been made, they can request a review of the fine through Revenue NSW or elect to have the matter heard in court."
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