Conflicts over caravan and boat parking are intensifying in Australian coastal communities. Local residents are reporting a rise in disputes and complaints, with neighbors accusing each other of being self-entitled and illegally occupying public street space.

Vandals ripped down and threw over a cliff traffic signs prohibiting overnight motorhome parking in the coastal areas of Sandsend and Cayton Bay in North Yorkshire. The county council introduced an experimental ban due to the increased number of motorhomes but faced overwhelming objections and vandalism, which disrupted data collection. A final decision on making the ban permanent will be made next month based on data from only two of the three planned sites.

A viral TikTok video has brought attention to the 'ghost camping' trend, where motorhomes or caravans are left parked in public spaces for extended periods. Owners use these areas for free accommodation, occupying spots intended for short-term use. The practice has sparked frustration among locals and authorities, with calls for such vehicles to be towed.

Australian campers report an increase in 'ghost camping,' where travelers reserve prime spots with their vehicles days or weeks in advance, leaving sites empty. The practice is particularly prevalent in free areas like national parks during peak holiday periods, such as along the Murray River in NSW and coastal Western Australia. Operators of a camping directory note it has become more common over the last five years with the growth in caravan and motorhome ownership, though it is generally frowned upon and difficult to regulate.

Police across Australia are enforcing towing weight limits for caravans and trailers, issuing fines and demerit points for violations. In Queensland, the fine is $333 with three demerit points, while in Victoria penalties can reach $1,580. A recent social media post, though using an old photo, highlighted ongoing police checks, with industry sources noting over 80% of vehicles checked before trips exceed legal limits.

Two major Queensland councils are spearheading a push to ban recreational vehicles from suburban streets, citing over 700 annual complaints on the Sunshine Coast alone. They are seeking state legislative changes to classify such vehicles separately, which would allow for vehicle-specific parking limits. The current law permits trailers under 7.5 metres and 4.5 tonnes to occupy streets indefinitely.

Sunshine Coast Council data shows about 700 annual complaints regarding caravans and trailers parked on suburban streets. The council states most vehicles are parked lawfully, but a local petition with 1150 signatures calls for stricter rules. A motion will be presented at an October conference, urging the state government to investigate management options for on-road storage of recreational vehicles.