Clearways
Traffic corridors where stopping is heavily restricted during operating times.
Last reviewed by NSW Parking Rules editorial team:
Clearways generally prohibit stopping during signed operating times to keep traffic moving.
If this rule is connected to a fine
Overview
Clearways are used on roads where parked or stopped vehicles can cause congestion or safety issues. They may also be created for special events, and towing may occur in some circumstances.
What the rule means
Clearways generally prohibit stopping during signed operating times to keep traffic moving.
Practical details
Official detail
Clearways are used to keep traffic lanes open during busy periods or special events. Vehicles may be fined and can be towed when a clearway is active.
What to check on the street
Read every time panel and date panel on the sign. A legal parking spot at midday may become a clearway later the same afternoon.
Everyday example
If you park before the afternoon peak, set a reminder to move the car before the clearway starts.
First checks to make on the street
- Read the nearest sign face, including arrows, days and times.
- Read every time panel and date panel on the sign. A legal parking spot at midday may become a clearway later the same afternoon.
- A Clearway sign is operating.
- Do not rely on this common shortcut: reading only the first time panel.
When the rule applies
- A Clearway sign is operating.
- The time panel applies to your stopping time.
- A vehicle is stopped within the signed clearway length.
- A special event clearway sign applies for the displayed event dates or times.
Examples
- Parking on a major road before checking peak-hour times.
- Stopping briefly to collect a passenger.
- Leaving a car in a bay that becomes a clearway later.
- Parking near a stadium during a signed special event clearway period.
Common mistakes
- Reading only the first time panel.
- Assuming weekends are always exempt.
- Forgetting that the restriction can start while the car is parked.
- Ignoring temporary event clearway signs because the usual street parking looks available.
Exceptions
- Some emergency or authorised vehicles may be treated differently.
- Signs may provide different rules outside clearway times.
- Official directions can temporarily alter access.
Fines and penalties
Possible penalties depend on the current offence code, location, time and evidence. Check the notice itself and official NSW sources.
What to do if you receive a fine
Read the notice, check the sign and location details, gather photos or permits, then decide whether to pay or request a review.
- Check whether the notice names Clearways or a related offence.
- Compare the notice time and location with photos of the sign, road marking or kerb layout.
- Keep any permit, ticket, payment record, loading record or written authority if it changes the answer.
- Use Revenue NSW or the authority named on the notice for payment and review steps.
Related parking rules
Related parking signs
Official sources
Use these official sources to confirm the current rule, fine amount, sign wording or local council condition before relying on a parking decision.
- Transport for NSW
Official transport guidance and road user information for New South Wales.
- Revenue NSW
Official source for penalty notices, fine payment and review processes.
General information only.
This guide is independent and does not replace NSW legislation, the sign at the kerb, your penalty notice or advice from the relevant authority.