The city raised $900,000 from parking infringements in 2013-14, and withdrew fines worth a total of $61,890.

Launceston City Council general manager Robert Dobrzynski said there were an estimated 20,000 outstanding fines – one for every five people living in the greater Launceston area.

When asked if he was concerned by the number of overdue fines, Mr Dobrzynski said raising revenue was not the primary reason for issuing infringement notices.

‘‘What fines do provide is a means for the council to manage the effective operation of the city on a day to day basis,’’ he said.

‘‘Management of parking allows the council to ensure vehicle turnover in the CBD, so that more people can gain a park.’’

Launceston City Council refers overdue notices to the Monetary Penalties Enforcement Service to attempt to recoup the unpaid fines.

A list published by the MPES shows at least 61 residents of the Launceston municipality owe more than $3000 in parking fines.

Of those, four owed just over $9000, one owed $12,000 and three owed more than $14,000.

Mr Dobrzynski said the council did not shy away from the fact that it raises funds through parking management.

‘‘What many people don’t realise is that the funds raised through parking are re-invested back into Launceston,’’ he said.

‘‘Every time you put money in a meter in Launceston, you are contributing to the upkeep of iconic attractions like the Cataract Gorge. You are helping to fund fantastic community events like Festivale or New Year on Royal.

‘‘The funds we raise through parking make Launceston a better place.’’

The Hobart City Council is owed almost $7.5 million in unpaid fines, according to a report released in August 2014 by the council’s general manager Nick Heath.

In the six-month period to August the Hobart City Council issued $2.3 million worth of fines.