Driver is fined after parking on his own driveway and breaking little-known rule

A motorist has been given a hefty fine for parking in his own driveway, blocking the sidewalk.

The man was fined $132 for parking his full-size Nissan Patrol Warrior behind another vehicle in his driveway in Conder, Canberra, on June 14.

Photos of the parking law were shared on Facebook and showed the rear half of the large vehicle blocking the sidewalk.

The driver did not realize that this part of his driveway is considered public property and does not belong to him, making his park illegal.

He criticized the ACT government after he was fined for ‘stopping on a path/lane in a built-up area’.

“Is the ACT government really so desperate for money that it is trying to fine people $132 for parking in their own driveway because they are ‘blocking the path’,” he wrote.

His post divided residents, with one even arguing that the fine should be increased.

‘It is quite fair to assume that the path is not necessary for other users. The fine should be doubled,” they wrote.

Some claimed pedestrians could still walk around the car (pictured), but many said it was difficult for people with strollers and those in wheelchairs

“Some ACT people whine and whine. Don’t park illegally, harassing other people, and you won’t get a fine. Simple.’

‘It’s about time. What about the walkers, especially those with strollers or even those who use wheelchairs,” wrote another.

‘Let me think a moment. The paths are for pedestrians, not cars.”

Some agreed with the driver and thought pedestrians could still get around the man’s car.

“I understand the reason for the fine, but your car seems so far gone that someone could barely get over the edge and still drive through your driveway,” one person said.

‘Also hindering, but not blocking.’

Obstructing a footpath or parking on the road with part of a vehicle blocking the driveway is illegal throughout Australia.

The front part of a driveway is considered municipal land.

In Queensland, people who break the rule can be fined up to $200, while in Victoria drivers are fined $109.

In Western Australia and Tasmania, fines are less than $100. NSW has the highest fine, which can go up to $302.

A spokesperson for Transport NSW tolls Yahoo Drivers may only stop or park across the driveway when picking up or dropping off people.

‘[Drivers must not] leave the vehicle unattended (or) complete the delivery or pick-up and resume driving within two minutes of stopping,” they said.