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This article was published on Tuesday, 22 November, 2016. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate.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

Greater Shepparton City Council Manager Citizen Services Laurienne Winbanks said with the very wet winter and recent warm weather the grass growth around the municipality is quite high.

“We are concerned that everyone is aware of their responsibilities to maintain their properties, particularly those in rural areas where grass fires can quickly take hold,” she said.

Community Rangers have been issuing Notices to Comply over the last month or so, with an extended period of time for compliance due to the wet weather.

“Now the weather is warming up and the grass is curing, Notices to Comply are being issued with a maximum of 14 days to comply,” said Ms Winbanks.

“Proactive inspections have now commenced with Fire Prevention Notices under the Country Fire Authority Act being issued for rural properties in the urban/rural fringe.”

“Keeping vegetation at an acceptable level will assist in reducing the risk to other home owners and residents,” says Ms Winbanks. “Owners need to be reminded that under Local Laws they are responsible for the maintenance of their land.”

“If we receive a complaint about the condition of vacant land we inspect the property within a day or two at the most and either send a Caution/Notice to Comply or ring the owner and request the problem be rectified.”

“In 99 per cent of cases the owners comply and rectify the situation within seven days,” said Ms Winbanks.

Ms Winbanks says with the weather warming up snakes may also become more active. Council’s parks and recreation team are also on track with their roadside slashing program.