Is It Illegal to Remove Parking Chalk From Your Tyres in Australia?

A viral TikTok showed someone wiping parking chalk off car tyres. A criminal lawyer has warned it could get people into serious trouble.

Key Facts

• Rangers use chalk to track how long a car has been parked
• South Australia has a specific law: Road Traffic Act 1961, section 174AB
• Maximum fine in SA: $750
• NSW: section 319 of the Crimes Act 1900 covers perverting the course of justice
• Maximum NSW penalty under section 319: 14 years’ jail

What the Lawyer Said

Avinash Singh from Astor Legal said: “Removing chalk off a tyre could be seen as attempting to pervert the course of justice.”

He said it would “hinder a parking ranger from carrying out their duties”.

Rules by State

South Australia

SA is the only state with a specific law. It is an offence to remove a parking inspector’s chalk. The maximum fine is $750.

NSW

Section 319 makes it an offence to do anything intending to pervert the course of justice. The maximum penalty is 14 years’ jail.

Queensland and WA

Attempting to obstruct justice can carry up to seven years’ jail under their criminal codes, news.com.au reported.

Victoria

Attempting to pervert the course of justice is a common law offence, news.com.au reported.

Is Anyone Likely to Be Jailed?

These are maximum penalties. The High Court has said the “course of justice” begins when court proceedings start, in The Queen v Beckett (2015). Whether chalk removal would meet the test depends on the facts.

If You Get a Fine

Mr Singh said drivers can contest a fine and ask for evidence, such as timestamped photos taken by the ranger.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is removing tyre chalk illegal in Australia?

In South Australia it is a specific offence with a fine of up to $750. In other states, lawyers warn it could be treated as perverting or obstructing justice.

Can I contest a parking fine?

Yes. You can ask for evidence, such as timestamped photos.

Why do rangers chalk tyres?

To track how long a car has been parked in a timed spot.

Conclusion

Wiping off chalk might seem harmless. It could cost far more than the parking fine.

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