Parking facing traffic
Rules about parking direction on two-way roads.
Last reviewed by NSW Parking Rules editorial team:
On many roads, vehicles should be parked facing the direction of travel for that side of the road.
If this rule is connected to a fine
Overview
Parking against traffic can create risk when entering or leaving the space because the vehicle must cross opposing traffic. The details should be checked against current road rules.
What the rule means
On many roads, vehicles should be parked facing the direction of travel for that side of the road.
Practical details
Official detail
Vehicles should generally be parked facing the same direction as traffic on that side of the road, unless a one-way street or sign changes the position.
What to check on the street
Check whether the street is one-way, whether bays are marked, and whether your vehicle would need to cross traffic to leave.
Everyday example
Parking nose-to-nose with traffic on a two-way street may create risk when you pull back out.
First checks to make on the street
- Read the nearest sign face, including arrows, days and times.
- Check whether the street is one-way, whether bays are marked, and whether your vehicle would need to cross traffic to leave.
- You park on a two-way road.
- Do not rely on this common shortcut: assuming quiet streets do not matter.
When the rule applies
- You park on a two-way road.
- The vehicle faces opposite the direction of traffic on that side.
- Local signs or road layout do not provide a specific arrangement.
Examples
- Crossing the road to park facing the wrong way.
- Parking opposite a house on the wrong side.
- Leaving a vehicle facing oncoming traffic overnight.
Common mistakes
- Assuming quiet streets do not matter.
- Following the direction of the driveway rather than traffic.
- Ignoring lane direction on one-way streets.
Exceptions
- One-way roads and marked bays may change the practical answer.
- Traffic control can temporarily alter road direction.
- Local layouts need sign confirmation.
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 Parking facing traffic 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.