The footpath is, and will mostly remain public land. However, there is a great Australian tradition that sees our residents taking care of the footpath adjoining their property. We support this approach and encourage all residents to improve and maintain their footpaths.
Things to be conscious of
You have the ability to improve the appearance of your neighbourhood. More people who take pride in the neighbourhood will improve the liveability of your area and your community.
Social: Streets where footpaths are planted with trees, shrubs or garden plantings, are more attractive and comfortable to walk around. There can be more social interaction between neighbours.
Environment: Additional planted areas on the footpath can improve bird habitats, reduce heating affects and improve storm water management.
Economic: Real estate values can be increased in areas with attractive streetscapes.
Pedestrian access must be available. The minimum requirement to be maintained in a typical residential street is 1200 mm. In higher traffic areas, there may be wider constructed paths provided. No impediments or trip hazards can be created within this space.
Ensure plantings will not impede visibility for pedestrians and vehicles. More stringent controls are in place near intersections.
There should be clear unobstructed areas where wheelie bins can be placed for collection. This area must be clear of trees and other obstacles. Buildings, fences or other solid structures are not able to be constructed within this public space.
Avoid species that have sharp leaves, fronds or thorns. Check that trees won’t drop large seed pods or limbs regularly. Trees above 2 metres are to be avoided.
If you plant species for fruit or other food production, you must understand that this remains a public place and it will not be possible to prevent others from taking from this space. Council will not enter into any disputes of this nature.
You can plant small trees, shrubs, grass, vegetables and ground covers. The application of mulch, fine decorative gravel or other suitable media can assist with water retention and reduce weed growth.
Use plants that match your soil type and climatic conditions. A list of suitable plant species is available on council’s website.
If non-local species are selected, consider varieties that are drought tolerant. Avoid plant species that are considered weeds, invasive in nature, easily spread by birds and animals or likely to damage infrastructure.
You may install in-ground irrigation at your own cost. The water charges will be at the property owner’s expense.
Native shrubs:
Non-native shrubs:
Native trees:
Non-native trees:
Native ground covers:
Non-native ground covers:
You have the ability to improve the appearance of your neighbourhood. More people who take pride in the neighbourhood will improve the liveability of your area and your community.
Social: Streets where footpaths are planted with trees, shrubs or garden plantings, are more attractive and comfortable to walk around. There can be more social interaction between neighbours.
Environment: Additional planted areas on the footpath can improve bird habitats, reduce heating affects and improve storm water management.
Economic: Real estate values can be increased in areas with attractive streetscapes.
Pedestrian access must be available. The minimum requirement to be maintained in a typical residential street is 1200 mm. In higher traffic areas, there may be wider constructed paths provided. No impediments or trip hazards can be created within this space.
Ensure plantings will not impede visibility for pedestrians and vehicles. More stringent controls are in place near intersections.
There should be clear unobstructed areas where wheelie bins can be placed for collection. This area must be clear of trees and other obstacles. Buildings, fences or other solid structures are not able to be constructed within this public space.
Avoid species that have sharp leaves, fronds or thorns. Check that trees won’t drop large seed pods or limbs regularly. Trees above 2 metres are to be avoided.
If you plant species for fruit or other food production, you must understand that this remains a public place and it will not be possible to prevent others from taking from this space. Council will not enter into any disputes of this nature.
You can plant small trees, shrubs, grass, vegetables and ground covers. The application of mulch, fine decorative gravel or other suitable media can assist with water retention and reduce weed growth.
Use plants that match your soil type and climatic conditions. A list of suitable plant species is available on council’s website.
If non-local species are selected, consider varieties that are drought tolerant. Avoid plant species that are considered weeds, invasive in nature, easily spread by birds and animals or likely to damage infrastructure.
You may install in-ground irrigation at your own cost. The water charges will be at the property owner’s expense.
Native shrubs:
Non-native shrubs:
Native trees:
Non-native trees:
Native ground covers:
Non-native ground covers:
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