Fines for illegal parking in disability spaces will double within the next month as Noosa Council takes steps to improve access for vulnerable residents and discourage inconsiderate parking.
Motorists who overstay time limits or park illegally in loading zones will also face increased penalties under the new measures.
The changes aim to make parking in busy precincts fairer and more accessible, while easing congestion around loading zones and supporting local businesses.
Mayor Frank Wilkie said the increase in penalty units will bring Noosa's fines into line with other southeast Queensland councils.
"Disability parking spaces must be kept available for those who genuinely need them," Mayor Wilkie said.
"Our vulnerable community members are rightly frustrated when these spaces are misused."
The tougher fines are also designed to improve turnover in high-demand areas and ensure delivery vehicles can access loading zones without obstruction.
"Encouraging people to stick to time limits means more parking opportunities for everyone—whether they're grabbing a coffee, shopping, or dining out," the Mayor added.
Acting Local Laws and Environmental Health Manager Clint Irwin said Council received 38 properly made submissions during the 21-day public consultation on the proposed changes.
"Around half of the submissions clearly supported higher fines to improve compliance. This support was particularly evident among residents that have been affected by overstaying, misuse of disability spaces and illegal overnight camping Mr Irwin said.
"While some raised concerns about cost-of-living impacts, the reality is fines only apply when rules are ignored.
New fine amounts:
- Illegally parking in a disability parking space: $667 (up from $333)
- Overstaying time limits: $125 (up from $83)
- Illegally parking in loading zones: $166 (up from $126)
Mr Irwin said Council would reinvest any extra revenue from the larger fines into future traffic improvement initiatives and enforcement efforts.
"Ideally, these fines will act as a deterrent. If people do the right thing, we won't see an increase in revenue - just better compliance and fairer access for all."
The new fines are expected to take in effect within the next month.
