Parking and road rules

Understanding parking and road rules helps keep everyone safe.

This guide explains:

• common parking signs and what they mean
• road rules that apply even when there are no signs
• special rules around school crossings.

Parking signs and what they mean

Parking signs tell you where, when and how long you can park. Always check the sign closest to your vehicle. Always read the parking signages from top-to-bottom, left-to-right for time limits (e.g., 2P means 2 hours) and days/times of restriction.

Time-limited parking signs

Examples: 1P, 2P, 3P, P10 signs 

• 1P = 1 hour parking
• 2P = 2 hours parking
• P10 = This sign means that a vehicle may only be parked in the designated spot for a maximum of 10 minutes. This is often used for short stops like dropping off passengers or picking up items.
• P2 = This sign indicates an even shorter maximum parking time limit of only 2 minutes. This is usually reserved for areas with very high demand for quick turnarounds, such as passenger loading zones. 

Time limits usually apply only during the days and times listed. 

Important: 

• Time limits apply even if the street looks quiet.
• You must move your vehicle once time expires.  

No stopping / no standing 

What it means: 

• you must not stop at all, even briefly
• you cannot wait in the car or drop someone off. 

Common locations: 

• near intersections
• near crossings
• narrow roads.

No parking

• You can only stop in these areas if you’re dropping off or picking up passengers or goods.
• Unless stated otherwise, stopping is limited to 2 minutes.
• Drivers cannot leave their vehicles unattended. If you need to get out (e.g., to help a passenger with bags), you must stay within 3 metres of the vehicle.
• Schools promote a “kiss and go” approach to these zones to encourage a quick and safe drop off. 2 minutes time-limit applies.

Bus zones

• Only buses may stop in these areas.
• Even short stops by other vehicles are not allowed.

Disabled parking

• Only vehicles displaying a valid disabled parking permit may park here.
• Time limits still apply unless otherwise stated.

Permit zones

These are designated areas for specific vehicles, such as those belonging to residents or businesses, to park without time limits. They are clearly indicated by signs and reserved for permit holders and their visitors. You must display the correct permit for the designated zone and time otherwise, you cannot stop at all.

Rules without signs

Some rules apply at all times, even when there are no signs or markings:

School crossings: special rules

School crossings protect children and families. Rules are strictly enforced.

Children’s crossing

When you see:

• children’s crossing signs
• flags displayed
• a School Crossing Supervisor holding a STOP sign.

You must:

• slow down immediately
• stop when instructed by the School Crossing Supervisor
• remain stopped until the supervisor has completely left the road.

If flags are displayed and there is no School Crossing Supervisor present, you must give way to all pedestrians and children approaching or using the crossing.

Parking near school crossings

Do not park:

• within 20 metres before a children’s crossing
• within 10 metres after a children’s crossing

These rules apply when the crossing is displaying flags or School Crossing Supervisor is present at the crossing.

Around schools: keep children safe

• Slow down — children can be unpredictable
• Obey all parking restrictions
• Avoid U-turns and double parking
• Follow directions from School Crossing Supervisors.

Penalties and enforcement

Offences may result in:

• fines
• vehicle towing
• demerit points (for serious offences).

Rules exist to protect community safety, not to inconvenience drivers.

More information

• Road Safety Road Rules 2017
• Report unsafe parking to Council Customer Service on (03) 9278 4444.