Planting on nature strips guidelines and permit

Nature strip flowers

A permit is required to undertake excavation and/or landscape works on nature strips.

The grass on a nature strip can be replaced without a permit from Council, but other modifications must go through the permit approval process.

Please read through the steps below and apply for your Planting on Nature Strip permit.

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1.Read planting guidelines and regulations

Information, restrictions and resources on how to plant on your nature strip. Please read the guidelines and options for planting before applying for a permit.

Step 2.Prepare your supporting documents

  • Sketch plan showing the location of the proposed landscaping and all assets within the nature strip assets affected by the works (trees, landscaping, road pavement, kerb and channel, footpaths, drains, service authority assets). Remember to include allocated space for bin collection in your sketch. Read more and see sketch plans examples.
  • If sharing the strip with other residents, seek planting permission.
  • If renting, notify your property owner or landlord of your intention to modify the nature strip.
  • Call Dial Before You Dig (1100) to find out about any underground services in your nature strip.

Step 3.Apply for Nature Strip Permit

When applying online, we will also ask you for:

  • The location of the nature strip (Property Search screen).
  • Start and end of works.

Apply online

Step 4.Join the Nature Strip Planting Project

While you wait for your permit, complete a 5-minute online form to join the Project.

By joining, you will receive a voucher for 50 free indigenous seedlings and a $50 voucher to a local garden centre (once your permit is approved to plant on your nature strip).

Step 5.Get planting

Refer to the list of recommended plants(PDF, 2MB) and think about how much maintenance you want to do after planting.

Share your progress (photos) with our team at sustainability@monash.vic.gov.au

  • If you are friendly with your neighbours, you might want to let them know about what you are doing – they might even be inspired to plant on their own nature strip!
  • After you have received your permit, you are ready to go.

Video: Learn how to plant your nature strip

 

Council has the authority to remove any plantings or works that impact on the safety of the public or public services. The landholder will be informed by Council first and have the opportunity to rectify the plantings, before Council initiates any rectification works.

When modifying nature strips, property owners must consider public safety and accessibility. Following Council's regulations and the recommendations below will minimise impact on other nature strip users and pedestrians.