Nature Strip Plantings

Nature strips play an important role in enhancing our towns and creating more sustainable and liveable environments.

Council's Nature Strip Planting Policy and associated Nature Strip Planting Guidelines were developed to guide and support residents in properties within city and township areas within Colac Otway Shire to plant and maintain nature strips. The policy and guidelines were adopted by Council in August 2024.

The policy and guidelines simplify processes for nature strip plantings, allowing residents to plant the nature strip adjoining their property without having to undergo a permit process. Where the proposed planting and maintenance will adhere to the guidelines, only a simple notification to Council is required: Local Laws Notification of Planted Vegetation on Road and Council Owned-Managed Land 2024-25(PDF, 317KB) 

To seek permission for planting beyond what is prescribed in the guidelines, a permit must be applied for: Local Laws Application to Plant Vegetation on Road and Council Owned-Managed Land 2024-25(PDF, 219KB)  

We encourage community members to read the policy and guidelines and to take up this opportunity to contribute to urban greening and township character.

(PDF, 23MB)

Colac Otway Shire Nature Strip Planting Guidelines(PDF, 23MB)