Landholders Urged To Maintain Vacant Blocks

Land owners have been urged to ensure any vacant lots they own are well maintained as the temperatures start to climb.

Council’s Compliance Department traditionally takes a large number of complaints regarding overgrown blocks around this time each year.

Overgrowth on vacant blocks can house snakes and vermin.

The increase in vegetation can also be a fire hazard, which not only ties up valuable emergency services resources, but can be a potential danger to residents and property.

Griffith Mayor, Doug Curran said the responsibility for maintaining vacant blocks remained with the owner.

“Owners are required to ensure vacant blocks are kept in a neat and tidy manner, and that any overgrowth or accumulated rubbish is cleared,” Mayor Curran said.

“Under the Local Government Act, Council can and will issue an Order for the land to be cleared and if an owner fails to comply with that Order, fines can be imposed.”

Residents have been asked to be patient while property owenrs of adjoining vacant land take the required action.

“I would encourage local landholders to maintain their blocks to avoid penalties,” Mayor Curran said.

“I also encourage neighbours to let Council know if they have concerns, especially around little ones.

“These areas can be a breeding ground for some pests and the last thing we want to see is someone getting hurt.”

If you have any questions regarding overgrown blocks, please contact Council on 1300 176 077.

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