What acts are illegal in the National Parks?
The following acts are examples of common offences in a National Park:
- Littering;
- Defacing any structure in the park;
- Gambling;
- Begging;
- Nudity;
- Disorderly conduct;
- Bathing or washing in a body of water;
- Cutting any plants or trees;
- Capturing or feeding any animal;
- Disobeying notices and signs posted in the park; and
- Smoking in nature reserves.
What is the punishment for an offence in a National Park?
A fine that will not exceed $2,000.
Will I be arrested for an offence in a National Park?
Park officers have the same powers as a police officer within the national parks, but park officers will not usually make an arrest unless the offence is of a serious nature.
Park officers will usually give you a Notice of Offence stating your offence and the amount of the fine which you have to pay.
How do I pay the fine?
You can pay by a money order, postal order or cheque sent to the National Parks Board’s office or you can pay the fine electronically at an AXS Station.
Can I appeal against a fine?
You can write in to the National Parks Board to appeal against a Notice of Offence. The National Parks Board takes one month to respond with their decision.
You can also dispute the Notice of Offence in the Magistrate’s Court.
What happens if I do not pay the fine?
The National Parks Board will report the fine to the Magistrate’s Court and it will be enforced as a fine ordered by the Court.
