Tow Truck Driver Avoids Fine After Parking Illegally In Disabled Spot

A Hamilton council-contracted tow truck photographed parked in a disabled car park has avoided a fine after its driver claimed a permit allowed its use, despite the council confirming the spot should not have been used. The incident occurred on Barton Street in central Hamilton on June 2, 2026, when a local business owner spotted the Hamilton Parking Services tow truck occupying the disabled parking space. The driver, who holds a valid disability parking permit following a leg injury sustained around a year ago, was reportedly waiting to tow cars on nearby Bryce Street once the street became a clearway at 4:30 p.m. The business owner, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed frustration, stating the tow truck had been seen in the spot twice before. “I think he’s taking the piss… It’s really unfair,” they said. “It’s rude to tow cars when you’re parked illegally. The whole irony is he’s doing that and someone forgets to put their number in a machine and gets a fine.” Hamilton Parking Services, which operates the truck under contract to the council, acknowledged the driver holds a permit but confirmed the spot should not have been used. The company’s owner, Luke Hollings, told drivers to exercise caution in public spaces, noting they operate “in the public eye.” The typical fine for parking illegally in a disabled car park is $750, though wardens must witness the violation in person—not just through photographs—to issue a penalty. The business owner had previously raised the issue with a Hamilton City Council parking warden but was directed to contact the council directly. The incident has sparked local outrage, with the owner calling the situation “bloody cheeky” and noting that others have faced fines for lesser infractions. The council has not yet commented on whether further action will be taken against the driver.