Greater Shepparton City Council is reminding property owners they are responsible for maintaining trees and vegetation on private property to ensure footpaths remain safe and accessible for all community members.
Under Council’s Local Law, vegetation on private property must not obstruct or interfere with the safe and convenient use of a road or footpath, obstruct visibility, or overhang a footpath or road at a height lower than 3.5 metres.
A breach of this Local Law may be investigated by Council’s Local Laws team and Council may request the property owner or occupier to undertake maintenance works to restore safe access.
Council’s Director Infrastructure, Aidin Montazami said maintaining vegetation adjacent to public spaces was an important part of ensuring community safety and accessibility.
“Our goal is to educate and work with residents to resolve issues before formal enforcement action is required,” he said.
“Most matters can be addressed through early intervention and property owners taking timely action to maintain vegetation adjoining public spaces.”
Mr Montazami said clear and accessible footpaths were essential for pedestrians of all ages and abilities, including parents/carers with prams, people using mobility aids and students travelling to and from school.
“Initially Council may issue a Notice to Comply, directing the property owner or occupier to undertake the required maintenance within a specified timeframe,” he said.
“Failure to act may result in the issue of an infringement and further enforcement in accordance with Council’s Local Laws.
“If the hazard still remains, Council may arrange for the vegetation to be trimmed or removed to address the safety risk. Any costs incurred by Council in undertaking these works may be recovered from the property owner.”
Residents who identify vegetation obstructing a footpath are encouraged to report the issue to Council. When lodging a report, providing the address of the affected property will assist Council officers in assessing the matter and undertaking any necessary follow-up actions.
