A JOINT CRACKDOWN on illegal camping across the Noosa Shire is continuing, with dozens of fines issued as council and police target people using public spaces as unofficial campgrounds.

Recent early morning patrols by Noosa Council officers, assisted by Queensland Police, resulted in 37 Penalty Infringement Notices and one caution being issued at several known illegal camping hotspots across the shire.

The patrols focused on areas where ongoing complaints have been received, including Tingira Crescent, Claude Batten Drive, The Spit, Beach Access 12, Dog Beach, the Noosa National Park precinct, Lanyana Way and Beach Access 50 at Glen Eden.

Noosa Council Director of Regulation and Development Richard MacGillivray said the enforcement campaign was aimed at people deliberately ignoring local laws, rather than those experiencing homelessness.

“Our officers do come across people who are genuinely experiencing homelessness and living in their vehicles because they have no other option,” Mr MacGillivray said.

“In those cases, our focus is not on enforcement; we work to connect those individuals with the appropriate support services.”

Noosa Council stated that their concern was with visitors and others who knowingly camp overnight in public areas, often treating parks and beachfront locations as free campgrounds.

“The action we’re taking is aimed at people who are knowingly doing the wrong thing, particularly visitors treating public areas as free campgrounds and not respecting local rules or the sensitive environment,” Mr MacGillivray said.

The joint operation forms part of an ongoing effort by council and police to protect public spaces while responding to strong community concerns about illegal camping.

Mr MacGillivray said residents had played an important role in helping officers identify problem areas.

“Local residents are often the first to notice issues in their neighbourhoods and their information helps us direct our patrols where they’re most needed.”

Council has received almost 300 complaints about illegal overnight camping so far this year. While still significant, that figure is lower than the same period last year, when more than 400 complaints had already been lodged.

Mr MacGillivray said illegal camping continued to generate frustration within the community, particularly where it affected popular recreational areas and environmentally sensitive locations.

“We understand the level of frustration in the community, particularly when public spaces and the natural environment are negatively impacted.”

“Noosa offers a range of purpose-built campgrounds with appropriate facilities, and these are the best options for visitors planning an overnight stay.”