Rules & Permits
Roadside vegetation outside your property: who's responsible?
The strip between your fence and the road usually isn't yours to clear. Who manages it, and how to get it dealt with.
On rural roads, the grass and scrub between your front fence and the gravel is road reserve, not your land. That catches a lot of people out when fire season comes around.
Who manages it
Local roads are generally managed by council. Main roads and highways are managed by the state road authority. Roadside vegetation, especially native roadside vegetation, is often protected and can be some of the best remnant bush left in an area.
What you can do
• Keep your own side of the fence in order — that's what a fire prevention notice will be about.
• Ask council before cutting, slashing or clearing on the roadside. Some councils allow limited slashing at driveway entrances for sight lines; get it in writing.
• Report overgrown roadsides, fallen trees or blocked culverts to the road manager.
Where we fit
We offer approved road and rail corridor vegetation work as well as work on private land. Road manager or asset-owner permission, site access controls and relevant vegetation approvals must be confirmed first.
Get a Quote
Want us to walk your property?
Send your address and we'll be in touch. Every quote is provided in writing, with no obligation to book.
Next Up
Slashing and machinery on hot days and Total Fire Ban days
Read nextGot vegetation work to sort out?
Send your address and arrange a site visit so we can assess the work.