Keeping footpaths clear for all pedestrians

RESDIENTS are being reminded that it is their responsibility to maintain their gardens so they don't encroach onto footpaths. The Rural City of Wangaratta has, over recent weeks, issued notices to some householders about the need to trim back their gardens from footpaths. Council has specific rules around gardens encroaching on footpaths. Garden vegetation such as lawns and groundcover, as well as shrubs and hedges, should not encroach onto the footpath. Trees overhanging the footpath should allow 2.5 metre clearance. Residents are also responsible for ensuring the nature strip does not encroach onto the footpath. If there is a tree on a nature strip whose branches encroach onto the footpath, this can be reported to the council. Residents are also responsible for leaves, seeds and fruit from their trees that may cause pedestrians to slip or trip. Council also suggested that residents ensure hoses across footpaths were managed appropriately or the resident could be potentially civilly liable if someone trips on them. Marcus Goonan, director of infrastructure services at council, said it was important that footpaths are kept clear. "Trees and shrubs in private gardens and along nature strips add to our environment, streets and neighbourhoods, but some local residents may find that walking around is made difficult because of overhanging or encroaching vegetation," he said. "Clearing obstructions ensure the path is clear for all users, including people with specific access needs, such as those using prams and wheelchairs, as well as the visually impaired. "Council continues to work to make sure existing and new paths are accessible for all community members. "Council regularly inspects local footpaths and streets to check for overhanging or encroaching vegetation, and welcomes reporting of known obstructions through our website (https://www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Your–Council/Contact–us) or via the Snap, Send Solve app."

Keeping footpaths clear for all pedestrians

New Queen of Norway has Wangaratta ties

Wangaratta Chronicle, Friday, 4 September, 2026

Attempted murder charges laid after Dixon Street care home fire

Man arrested after alleged arson at Wangaratta care home

Most popular stories

New Queen of Norway has Wangaratta ties

Wangaratta Chronicle, Friday, 4 September, 2026

Attempted murder charges laid after Dixon Street care home fire

Man arrested after alleged arson at Wangaratta care home