Seeking community feedback about changing our local laws
Proposed changes to Kingston's Community Local Law are open for public comment to seek community views on key issues including backyard firepits, footpath trading, derelict buildings and nature strip maintenance.
Kingston Mayor Steve Staikos said community consultation is underway until Sunday 7 February on the proposed changes, with strong interest on whether or not to allow backyard fire pits.
"We have received a lot of feedback from people who would like to legally and safely use a fire pit in their backyard. But we also understand that our local ban was first introduced to address health concerns around open fires and burn-offs," said Cr Staikos. "We have taken this all into account and are proposing to re-introduce open air fires (or fire pits) to Kingston Council in a safe way, which minimises disturbance to neighbours. We want to make sure that we have this balance right and would love to hear what our community members think about the proposed changes."
Other proposed changes include:
- Maintenance of Nature Strips - requiring maintenance of nature strips by property owners to address the unsustainable resourcing required of Council in responding to nature strip maintenance issues.
- Regulation of derelict buildings - provides clarity that dilapidated buildings can be addressed and responded to under the Local Law. Currently, the wording includes 'unsightly and damaged'.
- Footpath Activities Policy – the change refers to the policy in more sections of the Local Law to reflect the increased scope of footpath trading, including the use of barbecues on footpaths.
Full details around the proposed changes to our Community Local Law can be found at yourkingstonyoursay.com.au. This consultation is accepting feedback until Sunday 7 February 2022.
