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This article was published on Friday, 13 January, 2023. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

Council reminds owners to maintain vacant blocks

Posted on Friday 13th of January, 2023,

Greater Shepparton City Council is reminding land owners to ensure long grass on their property is maintained, with the recent hot weather bringing more snakes and a higher risk of grass fires.

Grass growth has increased rapidly around the region due to the recent warm weather and rainfall. With the summer fire danger period underway, Council’s Director Sustainable Development Geraldine Christou reminded residents to maintain any vacant blocks.

“Everyone needs to be aware of their responsibilities to maintain their properties, particularly those in areas where grass fires can quickly take hold,” she said.

Owners are reminded to reduce fine fuels including long or excessive grass and weeds, and continue to maintain their properties throughout the year. In rural areas, creating and maintaining fire breaks will assist in reducing the intensity of a fire if it occurs, as fine fuels such as long grass and weeds can be responsible for an increase in fire intensity and spread.

“Keeping vegetation at an acceptable level will assist in reducing the risk to other home owners and residents,” Mrs Christou said.

“If Council receives a complaint about excessive vegetation or grass on vacant or unkept land, Council officers will inspect the property and, if required, issue a Notice to Comply or a Fire Prevention Notice.”

Notices to Comply require owners to reduce the excessive grass and weeds across the entire property. Fire Prevention Notices require the property owner to clean up and reduce fine fuels such as bark, leaves, twigs and long grass either as a fire break or across the entire property.

“If you receive a notice, please ensure that the required works are carried out by the completion date and continue to maintain your properties in the future,” Mrs Christou said.

“We also urge residents to report any vacant blocks with long grass to Council. Council officers will then follow up the enquiry and make sure the owner is notified.”

To report a vacant block of land with long grass, contact Council on 5832 9700 or via email at council@shepparton.vic.gov.au

To report a snake on your property, contact the Department of Planning and Transport on 136 186.

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