East Gippsland towns are expected to experience a surge in traffic now state-wide travel is permitted and the Christmas period is approaching, prompting East Gippsland Shire Council to remind drivers to check parking signs and stick to the time limits.

Council’s Community Laws Coordinator Darren Lang said parking officers will be increasing their enforcement effort across the shire to ensure motorists follow parking restrictions, including loading zones and disabled parking bays.

Timed parking arrangements exist in some areas of East Gippsland’s business districts to limit the amount of time that any vehicle can spend in a space and allow access for all shoppers and visitors.

“It has been a tough couple of years for most businesses, with many forced to close or significantly limit their services due to COVID restrictions. Respecting the time limits on parking arrangements creates a turnover of traffic allowing more people to access business districts and help business recovery,” Mr Lang said.

“These time limits apply to people shopping or doing business as well as to business owners and their staff. Parking in loading zones can also hinder the delivery of goods to businesses. Loading zones are clearly signed and are not for use by the general public.”

Council is also appealing to motorists to respect the purpose of disabled car parks and not park in these spaces unless they have a permit.

The availability of disabled parking spaces is intended to make it a little easier for a person with a disability and their carers to access local shops and medical facilities.

Officers have the authority to fine drivers of vehicles breaching parking restrictions. Fines ranging from $81 to $161 may be imposed.

‍