Planting our new draft Nature Strips Policy and revised Guidelines

Published on 21 February 2024

Our community’s enthusiasm for biodiversity and sustainability has helped inform the creation of a new draft Policy and revised Guidelines for nature strips in our municipality.

Following engagement with current permit holders and the broader community in 2023, the new draft Nature Strip Planting Policy and revised Guidelines aim to make it easier and clearer for residents to begin planting on their nature strip. This includes a new online permit application form to provide applicants with an easy step-by-step guide, with residents gaining approval immediately if compliant.

Mayor, Cr Cuc Lam said Council recognised nature strips contribute to a healthy environment for people, plants and animals, and Council had a responsibility to manage the risks associated with landscaping works on public lands.

“Our updated framework balances the benefits of nature strip planting while minimising risks that could arise from landscaping, including damage to utilities and risk to public safety. We know our residents want more guidance to assist with their nature strip planting, so we have included a list of permitted and suggested plants within the revised Guidelines, as well as information on what should be avoided,” she said.

Proposed actions in the draft Policy include reducing planting from the kerb from 1m to 50cm with exception of ground covers, allowing minimal pavers and stepping stones for ease of access and maintenance, and allowing edible plants in planter boxes using clean soil.

Changes and updates to the draft Policy and revised Guidelines were informed by feedback from existing permit holders and the broader community and a Council review of the current process. Respondents told Council that nature strips were important to them because they contributed to the look and feel of the street, and they wanted to see greater use of nature strips and more greenery. Respondents also shared the challenge of maintaining nature strips and keeping them tidy.

Review and provide feedback on the draft Policy and revised Guidelines before midnight Sunday 24 March 2024 at yourcityyourvoice.com.au/nature-strips