Appeals

As outlined in Parking in Cottesloe, the Town provides free unrestricted parking as well as time-limited parking to allow for equitable access to the business areas and beaches in the Town. Time-limited parking in the Town is monitored by automatic electronic parking sensors embedded in the parking bays. These sensors record the time a vehicle enters and leaves a parking bay and immediately reports a breach of time limit to the Town's Ranger Services.

It is essential that drivers choose a parking space carefully and check the signage closest to them to ensure they are aware of any restrictions in place so they can plan their time in Cottesloe.  

To view pictures of your vehicle at the time of infringement click here

Should you wish to dispute your infringement, please ensure that you are aware of the reasons that are considered as invalid reason for appeal detailed below.  Ranger Services take a series of photographs of your vehicle at the time of issuing an infringement.  These images are recorded as evidence of the offence and can be viewed by clicking the link below. 

Invalid Reasons for Appeals

The following are not valid reasons or explanations that would allow the withdrawal of a parking infringement:

  • You did not see the sign. The driver must look for and comply with parking signs to ascertain if parking is permitted in the area.
  • You did not understand the parking sign or the sign was confusing. The Town’s signs comply with the standards set by the relevant Australian Standard.
  • You did not know that parking restrictions applied.
  • You couldn’t find a parking bay so you left your vehicle in a place you thought would have been alright. The driver must look for and comply with parking signs to ascertain if parking is permitted in the area.
  • You did not know the parking rules. These rules fall under the Road Traffic Code and form part of the requirements for obtaining a driver's license.
  • You thought you were allowed to park there. Only authorised vehicles can park in loading zones, taxi stands, disabled parking bays or bus zones.
  • The permit had fallen out of sight or flipped upside down. You must ensure that any parking permit is displayed correctly prior to leaving the vehicle.
  • You had to use the toilet.
  • You were only there for a few minutes or you lost track of the time.
  • You were helping someone and thought it was ok to disregard the parking rules. Drivers need to ensure their vehicle is legally parked, regardless of the reason.
  • Your doctor's appointment / hairdresser / job interview / exam / lecture etc went over time. You must ensure you have parked in a place that provides enough time for your requirements.
  • You were copying how someone else had parked. This does not exempt you from ensuring you are parked legally.
  • You did not see the time restrictions on the sign or did not read all information on the sign.
  • You ran out of fuel. 

In some circumstances infringements may be withdrawn, however this is generally rare.  As part of the review process you may be required to complete a Statutory Declaration.  If your infringement is withdrawn, a letter will be sent to you confirming the withdrawal. 

Valid Reasons for Appeals

With documentation to support your appeal, infringements may be appealed and withdrawn in the following circumstances:

  • The vehicle owner was not the driver at time of infringement issue and the vehicle owner has supplied the Town of Cottesloe with the driver’s name and address details in the form of a properly completed statutory declaration witnessed by an authorised witness.
  • Disabled parking permit displayed that may have fallen from dashboard, a valid ACROD permit in the name of the vehicle owner must be produced.
  • Immediate medical attention (or medical emergency) was required or being undertaken to the driver or their passenger. A medical certificate from a medical practitioner or an authorised person at the relevant hospital authority must substantiate this in writing.
  • Vehicle breakdown, flat tyre, etc. Documentary evidence must be provided from the RAC, a reputable motor vehicle breakdown service company or motor vehicle mechanical repair company or other evidence of mechanical failure to be provided.
  • The illegal parking of the vehicle was authorised by a Police Officer or Ranger due to an emergency or as a result of action by the Police. i.e. parking of vehicle due to drink/driving allegation. A statement by the Police Officer or Ranger to be provided.

Submitting an Appeal

Please ensure that you have read the information above outlining what constitutes a valid appeal.  If you wish to dispute your infringement, a completed Appeal Form must be submitted to the Town.

Options for submitting an appeal:-

  • Complete an Online infringement Appeal Form, OR
  • Complete a printed Infringement Appeal Form and return either by email to town@cottesloe.wa.gov.au, or by post to Chief Executive Officer, Town of Cottesloe, PO Box 606, Cottesloe, 6011. 
  • Appeals cannot be processed over the phone. 

On receipt of your completed form an acknowledgment letter will be sent to your property address within 10 business days.  If you do not receive an acknowledgement of your form, or have any questions about the appeal process, please contact the Town's Ranger Services on 9285 5000.  Should the outcome of your appeal be unsuccessful, the Town does not accept a second appeal request.  

Online Infringement Appeal Form

Infringement Appeal Form 

Related Documents

Statutory Declaration

Parking and Parking Facilities Local Law 2023