Property driveways
All new driveways must be compliant with relevant Infrastructure Design Manual (IDM) standards as suggested by Council.
Culverts and Cross-overs
A vehicle crossing provides vehicular access to private property from the public traffic lane to the property boundary. In the urban area a vehicle crossing may consist of a concrete driveway and layback in the kerb and channel. In the rural area a crossing may consist of a sealed or unsealed pavement over a reinforced concrete pipe with concrete end-walls.
Under the Road Management Act 2004, it is the property owners responsibility to maintain and provide access to their own property. Vehicle crossings are the responsibility of the abutting landowner and are constructed at the landowner’s expense. Landowners are responsible for ensuring that crossings are maintained in a safe condition. This includes maintaining gravel driveways, installation and maintenance of culvert crossings where needed and concrete type crossovers where kerb and channel exists.
Any person wishing to construct a vehicle crossing must first obtain a Works Within Road Reserve (WWRR) permit and comply with Council specifications and WWRR permit conditions when undertaking works. Council does not inspect, maintain or repair private vehicle crossings (driveways) and pathways on road reserves that provide access to land adjoining a road. This responsibility rests with the adjoining landowner.
If gravel from driveways, grass overgrowth or any such obstruction blocks culverts, it is the property owners responsibility to unblock, maintain and keep culverts in working order.
Footpaths
A landowner has a responsibility to keep a footpath clear of vegetation growing from their property. Under the provisions of Council’s local laws, Council may direct the landowner to trim the overhanging branches and any vegetation which impacts on the footpath.
Nature strips
Nature strips are the piece of land situated between the edge of a road and the property boundary. Nature strips form part of the road reserve and are therefore under Southern Grampians Shire Council management. However, Council asks that residents maintain the basic upkeep of their nature strips so that the streetscape is kept free of hazards for the benefit of all.
Residents are reminded that garden beds, foliage or structures should not cause a line of sight problem for vehicles or pedestrians when using, entering or exiting an intersection, driveway or footpath. Council’s local laws officers may direct the landowner to trim the overhanging branches or encroaching vegetation if it becomes a public safety issue.
Council may undertake works where safety or significant amenity issue is present.
A landowner has a responsibility to keep a footpath clear of vegetation growing from their property. Under the provisions of Council’s local laws, Council may direct the landowner to trim the overhanging branches.
Further information is available via Council's Road Management Plan and Council's Community Local Law.
Contact
Customer Service
111 Brown Street
Hamilton Vic 3300
Phone (03) 5573 0444
Email council@sthgrampians.vic.gov.au