Nature Strips

Under the City of Ballarat’s Road Management Plan, property owners have an obligation to maintain the nature strip bordering their property. 

Grass is the preferred surface as it is drought tolerant, contributes greenery to the streetscape, is permeable to rainwater, enables access to underground services with minimal lasting surface disruption and provides overflow space for constructed footpaths and unconstructed pedestrian areas alike.  

Soft-limbed ground cover plants that do not pose a risk to the public or environment are also permissible. 
Refer to agriculture.vic.gov.au for a list of weeds which must not be planted.  

Maintenance tasks may include mowing, watering, re-levelling, or planting grass/ground cover.  

Street trees are not to be planted or pruned by the public. Please contact the City of Ballarat about street tree planting and maintenance.  

As per Victoria’s Road Safety Road Rules 2017, cars are not to be parked on nature strips. Fines may apply and vehicle owners held liable for any damage.  

Permits ensure the owner accepts responsibility for maintenance and safety regarding changes to nature strips.  

Download the Nature Strip Alterations Fact Sheet

Download the Nature Strip Plater Boxes Fact Sheet

How do I apply for a permit?

Online

• Visit eservices, find your property, and follow the prompts.  
• You will need to register before you can access the permit application.

In person

• Visit our Customer Service Centre. 

These fees are current for Nature Strip Alteration and Planter Box permits the 2023-2024 financial year and are subject to change each financial year.  

• Nature strip alteration; manual (hand excavation) - $20  
• Nature strip alteration (mechanical) – $92.94  
• Planter Box application - $20 

The City of Ballarat’s Urban Weed Control Program is undertaken throughout the year to control vegetation and weeds on urban streets, footpaths, kerb, gutters, and laneways, using low-level glyphosate that is commonly used in home gardens and aquatic environments, and across our city, including our lakes, parks, gardens and outdoor spaces. There are a number of spray cycles per year which are based on the life cycle of the weeds and are aimed at preventing the spread of any new seeds. The timing of this program depends on seasonal growth and weather conditions.

If you choose to register your property on the No Spray Register, you assume responsibility for the management of weeds on the road reserve in front of or alongside your property. This may include management of weeds to ensure our drainage network continues to operate efficiently and prevent drains from blocking and possible flooding.

Please note: The No Spray Register is renewed each year on 30 June, you will receive a renewal in the post and be required to return this form to renew your interest to continue on the register.

Apply to be on the register by providing the following information:

• Your name
• Contact information
• Property Location
• Acknowledgement that: By applying to be on the No Spray register, you assume the responsibility for the management of weeds on the road reserve in front of and alongside your property.

You can apply using the following methods:

• Online: Complete the No Spray Register form via E-Services
• By email: Add the subject line 'No Spray Register' and send to info@ballarat.vic.gov.au
• By phone: Call Customer Service on 5320 5500
• In person: Visit the Customer Service team at: The Phoenix, 25 Armstrong Street South, Ballarat
• By post:  
  Attention: Customer Experience Team
  City of Ballarat
  PO Box 655, Ballarat, VIC 3353