Residents encouraged to prune gardens for pedestrian safety

Published on 03 June 2020

Residents can help keep pedestrians safe by keeping their gardens clear of public footpaths.

Council Manager Environment and Emergency Lyall Bond encouraged people to check their boundaries and take action if needed.

“There’s been some good growth through spring and summer and it’s easy for plants to get away from us before we notice,” Mr Bond said.

“Plants growing out into the footpath can cause trip hazards that can cause injury, particularly older people or people with disabilities that limit their mobility.

“Tree branches at head or eye height, or thorny plants like roses also pose a risk of injury to passers-by.

“If you rent or own a home or business you are required to make sure overhanging branches, plants, shrubs and ground cover are pruned back from the property line to a height of two metres.”

Removing obstructions ensures the path is clear for users including people with specific access needs, such as prams and wheelchairs, the elderly and people with vision impairments.

Mr Bond also reminded residents to keep their vehicles clear of the footpath when parking in driveways.

“Pedestrian safety on footpaths is a shared responsibility between residents and Council.

“Council undertakes annual inspections and contacts property owners where required to ensure footpaths are clear from trees and shrubs.

“Sometimes plants and hedges can grow quickly so let us know if you see any overhanging trees that may be a hazard in public open spaces and, if they’re on land we manage, we’ll take care of them.”

To report any issues, call 5593 7100 or click here.