Parallel parking
How to position a vehicle when parallel parking.
Last reviewed by NSW Parking Rules editorial team:
Parallel parking usually means parking in the same direction as traffic and close to the kerb.
If this rule is connected to a fine
Overview
Parallel parking is the standard parking position unless signs or road markings say otherwise. Correct positioning helps keep traffic moving and protects access to nearby vehicles.
What the rule means
Parallel parking usually means parking in the same direction as traffic and close to the kerb.
Practical details
Official detail
Parallel parking is the default arrangement unless signs or marked bays show another position.
What to check on the street
Park close to the kerb, face the direction of travel and leave practical room for nearby vehicles to enter and leave.
Everyday example
A car left too far from the kerb can narrow the lane enough to create a traffic hazard.
First checks to make on the street
- Read the nearest sign face, including arrows, days and times.
- Park close to the kerb, face the direction of travel and leave practical room for nearby vehicles to enter and leave.
- There is no angle parking sign or marking.
- Do not rely on this common shortcut: assuming any angle is acceptable if the car fits.
When the rule applies
- There is no angle parking sign or marking.
- You park along a kerb in a marked or unmarked space.
- The street is one-way or two-way and direction of travel matters.
Examples
- Leaving a large gap from the kerb in an ordinary parallel space.
- Parking against the traffic direction on a two-way street.
- Parking too close to the car in front or behind.
Common mistakes
- Assuming any angle is acceptable if the car fits.
- Forgetting to leave room for other parked vehicles to move.
- Ignoring line markings in a marked bay.
Exceptions
- One-way streets and marked bays can change the side or direction.
- Angle parking signs override ordinary parallel positioning.
- Temporary traffic control may alter parking layout.
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 Parallel parking 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.
- NSW legislation
Official NSW legislation source for road rules and statutory instruments.
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.