Sydney man stumped by parking sign obstructed by council tree
A tree planted by a Sydney council has become the centre of a raging parking debate after an unsuspecting driver was stung with a $300 fine.
Juan was fined by a City of Sydney Council ranger after he stopped among a line of cars along William Street in the city's CBD in February.
He was baffled when the ranger noted he had stopped within a "no stopping" zone.
READ MORE: How the investigation into the disappearance of Samantha Murphy unfolded
A council tree has become the centre of a raging parking debate. Supplied
But to his surprise, he discovered a parking sign completely covered by a tree.
"A friend got out of my car and the ranger considered that a 'stop'," he told 9news.com.au.
"The last sign you can see when driving towards the intersection is a parking sign, so you would naturally think it is possible to stop after that.
"But no, there's a hidden sign."
Juan contested the fine by supplying images that showed the sign obstructed.
Have you spotted a confusing parking sign? Contact reporter Miriah Davis at miriah.davis@nine.com.au
Juan was baffled when he discovered a parking sign completely covered by a tree. Supplied
However he was told "the issuing officer has noted the signs were clear" and his appeal was rejected.
Juan was stumped as to why the tree was planted in front of the sign in the first place.
"How are drivers supposed to know we can't do something if the sign is completely out of sight, in this case by a tree planted by the council?" he said.
READ MORE: How to see tonight's lunar eclipse in Australia
A City of Sydney spokesperson told 9news.com.au council rangers "proactively report signs that are obstructed by vegetation so maintenance can be carried out".
"With safety-related offences, for example - parking too close to an intersection, it should be noted that not all parking rules relate to an individual sign," they added.
"If a motorist does not agree with the outcome of a fine review with Revenue NSW, then they can elect to have a matter heard in court."
FOLLOW US ON WHATSAPP HERE: Stay across all the latest in breaking news, celebrity and sport via our WhatsApp channel. No comments, no algorithm and nobody can see your private details.
Share a tip-off, video or photo with us
