Mowing and brush cutters works on public property

Maintenance of nature strips

We own and control the grassed verge or nature strip located between the property boundary and the constructed road that usually contains a footpath. As we do not have the physical or financial resources to maintain the vast number of nature strips in Sutherland Shire, we rely upon and appreciate the work of residents to mow and maintain these areas.

Maintenance of vegetation on public roads, medians and other vehicle access ways

Our maintenance crews and sub-contractors are engaged to mow the following Council assets on a cyclic basis:

  • areas adjacent to public roads (excluding fronting private properties/nature strips)
  • grassed medians on local and classified main roads
  • grass growing in vehicular access lanes servicing properties
  • grass growing on walkways linking public roads to other public roads
  • recreation parks
  • playgrounds and
  • sporting fields.

Accidents resulting from mowing and brush cutters activities

Unforeseen accidents may occur when a stone or hard object is thrown up from a mower or brush cutter operated by our staff or a sub-contractor. We cannot accept liability for anyone injured or who sustains a loss in these situations, until the matter has been fully investigated and liability is established.

Before making a claim, we recommend that you seek independent professional legal advice.

Making a claim

If you wish to make a claim against us, please complete and submit a Claim for Compensation form including documented evidence or proof to support your claim. This may include photos of the alleged accident/incident.

After you have submitted a claim

If the mowing activity was conducted by one of our sub-contractors, the matter will be referred to the company in question.

All claims are managed by our external insurance managers on our behalf. You will be contacted in writing to acknowledge your claim by either us directly or our representative. Once the claim has been investigated and a decision has been made, you will be advised of the outcome in writing.

The process of investigation and determination can take time. Obtaining information from third parties, contractors or witnesses can be time consuming and claims resulting from negligence are often complicated. We ask for your patience and co-operation during this time.

Please note: Completion and acceptance of your ‘Claim for Compensation’ form does not represent an admission of liability or a waiver of our rights.