Illegal camping targeted in NSW MidCoast beach towns

New South Wales MidCoast Council rangers are working closely with the National Parks and Wildlife Service rangers and NSW Police and will be clamping down on illegal camping  this summer.

Visitors are urged to stay in designated camping areas or private accommodation. Illegal camping includes sleeping in a car, tent or van in any place where camping is not permitted.

"Illegal camping can have very negative impacts for locals, local businesses and the environment,” advised Director of Liveable Communities, Paul De Szell.

“Residents in coastal hotspots have made it clear they want a strong response from Council on this issue.

“That’s why we’ve significantly increased patrols. Rangers have the right to issue fines and move illegal campers on.”   

Council rangers can also issue fines for illegal parking, rubbish dumping, and driving on a beach without a permit. All fines are set by Revenue NSW and vary from $110 - $600.

A special focus will be on popular coastal towns including Seal Rocks, Tea Gardens/Hawks Nest, Crowdy Head and Harrington.

Failure to find accommodation is not an acceptable reason to camp illegally. During peak season, visitors are advised to book well ahead. Accommodation can often be found by looking further inland at towns like Taree, Wingham, and Gloucester.

Council will continue to work with the affected communities on further potential measures to prevent illegal camping and rubbish dumping.