Central Coast Council is cracking down on illegal camping, with increased ranger patrols, new signage and stricter penalties to protect public spaces for both residents and visitors.
With Easter approaching and a surge in visitors expected, Council is reminding the community that camping in residential streets, beach carparks and nature reserves is prohibited.
To keep public spaces safe and accessible for everyone, ranger patrols will now operate seven days a week, from early morning and overnight, with fines issued to those who do not comply with the signposted rules.
Central Coast Council Director Environment and Planning Jamie Loader said the increased enforcement aimed to balance welcoming visitors with ensuring the local environment and community were safe and respected.
“We love sharing our region with visitors, but it’s important that our public spaces remain clean, safe and accessible for everyone,” he said.
“Illegal camping can lead to litter, environmental damage and safety concerns, which is why we are increasing patrols and taking a stronger stance on enforcement.”
The crackdown includes stronger penalties for illegal camping, with on-the-spot fines ranging from $110 to $2,200 and a maximum penalty of $110,000 for repeat offenders.
Council has also reviewed and updated signage at key locations, restricting overnight parking between 10pm and 5am and making it clear that camping is not permitted.
Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said beaches, parks, and reserves were some of the the region’s greatest assets and belonged to everyone.
“By addressing illegal camping, we are helping to ensure that locals and visitors alike can continue to enjoy these spaces without disruption,” he said.
“The message is simple – if you’re visiting the Central Coast, plan ahead and book an approved campsite.”
Council acknowledged that some individuals who camped illegally could be experiencing homelessness.
In these cases, rangers work closely with specialist homelessness services and the Central Coast Assertive Outreach Team to connect people with housing, health and crisis relief.
McKinna said people who were experiencing homelessness were to be treated respectfully and appropriately.
“While we are committed to enforcing the rules, we also understand that everyone has different circumstances and Council has a responsibility to support vulnerable members of our community,” he said.
“Council continues to work closely with police, State Government agencies and local service providers to find long-term solutions to homelessness.”
Visitors looking to stay on the Central Coast are encouraged to book ahead at one of the many approved camping grounds and holiday parks in the region.
For more information, search ‘illegal camping’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au.
We’ve heard this before when the new council was elected but I have not seen any eidence of progress on the issue.
Hi we have seen an increase in and around the Toukley area. It is such pity and ruins the beauty of our public area. We now avoid the area where these illegal campers have claimed their areas. There is a man down on the waterfront right on the waters edge with his tent set up. He mows the grass around him has chairs set around take on his free waterside home. This sort of thing encourages other homeless desperate people to do the same. It is not fair to see someone stay for so long and give everyone the message it’s onto just claim your spot and move in. Other people are struggling trying to pay their council rates and rent, mortgages and just trying to live. It’s not fair for these people to take advantage of a public area. There is a camping area just a short way up the road. Why hasn’t he tried to get a camping site there. Because it cost money I bet, he must get a pension so like everyone else he has to sort his money out like everyone else. It will be interesting to see how long it will take for you to move him on.