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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
District Council of XXX
Roadside Vegetation
Management Plan
Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
(Part 3)
Insert date
1
District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
CONTENTS
CONTEXT ........................................................................................................................................ 4
SECTION 2: MANAGEMENT ISSUE GUIDELINES ....................................................................... 5
2.1
New Roadworks Clearance Guidelines .............................................................................. 5
2.1.1 All Roads ....................................................................................................................................... 5
2.1.2 Sealed Roads................................................................................................................................ 6
2.1.3 Unsealed Roads ............................................................................................................................ 6
2.2
Roadside Maintenance Guidelines ..................................................................................... 7
2.2.1 Sealed Roads................................................................................................................................ 7
2.2.2 Unsealed Roads ............................................................................................................................ 7
2.2.3 All Roads ....................................................................................................................................... 7
2.2.4 Maintenance of Clearance Envelopes ........................................................................................... 8
2.2.5 Secondary Clearance Envelopes .................................................................................................. 9
2.3
Public Safety Clearance Guidelines ................................................................................. 10
2.3.1 Road Curves ............................................................................................................................... 10
2.3.2 Sight Triangles at Road Intersections and Rail Crossings - Category 1 ....................................... 10
2.3.3 Sealed Roads – Category 2 ........................................................................................................ 10
2.3.4 Unsealed Roads – Category 2..................................................................................................... 11
2.3.5 Clearance Beyond Category 1 and 2 Zones - Category 3............................................................ 11
2.4
Installation and Maintenance of Utilities Guidelines ....................................................... 12
2.4.1 Guidelines ................................................................................................................................... 12
2.5
Pest Plant and Animal Control Guidelines....................................................................... 13
2.5.1 Pruning of Native Vegetation ....................................................................................................... 13
2.5.2 Spraying of Herbicides in Native Vegetation ................................................................................ 13
2.5.3 Removal of Entire Native Plants .................................................................................................. 13
2.5.4 Site Inspection............................................................................................................................. 13
2.5.5 Landscape Scale Planning Approach .......................................................................................... 13
2.5.6 General Guidelines...................................................................................................................... 14
2.6
Soil-borne Pests and Diseases Guidelines ...................................................................... 15
2.6.1 Guidelines ................................................................................................................................... 15
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.7
Fenceline Clearance Guidelines ....................................................................................... 16
2.7.1 Guidelines ................................................................................................................................... 16
2.8
Property Access Clearance Guidelines ........................................................................... 18
2.8.1 Guidelines ................................................................................................................................... 18
2.9
Bushfire Hazard Reduction Guidelines ............................................................................ 19
2.9.1 Buildings and Structures.............................................................................................................. 19
2.9.2 Fuel Breaks and Fire Access Tracks ........................................................................................... 19
2.9.3 Fuel Reduction in Roadside Vegetation....................................................................................... 19
2.10
Grazing Guidelines ......................................................................................................... 21
2.10.1 Guidelines ................................................................................................................................. 21
2.11
Droving Stock Guidelines .............................................................................................. 22
2.11.1 Guidelines ................................................................................................................................. 22
2.12
Recreational Use of Road Reserves (Including Undeveloped Roads) Guidelines .... 23
2.12.2 Guidelines ................................................................................................................................. 23
2.13
Cultivation and Cropping Guidelines ............................................................................ 24
2.13.1 Guidelines ................................................................................................................................. 24
2.14
Removal of Plant Material Guidelines ........................................................................... 25
2.14.1 Collection of Dead Timber ......................................................................................................... 25
2.14.2 Cutting of Live Timber ............................................................................................................... 25
2.14.3 Brush-cutting ............................................................................................................................. 25
2.14.4 Seed Collection ......................................................................................................................... 25
2.14.5 Flower Harvesting ..................................................................................................................... 26
2.15
Maintenance of Vegetation Diversity Guidelines ......................................................... 27
2.15.1 Guidelines ................................................................................................................................. 27
2.16
Protection of Vegetation of High Conservation Significance Guidelines .................. 28
2.16.1 Guidelines ................................................................................................................................. 28
2.17
Restoration and Revegetation on Roadside Reserves Guidelines............................. 30
2.17.1 Guidelines ................................................................................................................................. 30
SECTION 3: INDIVIDUAL PRESCRIPTION SHEETS – (Example) ............................................. 32
3.1 Prescription Sheet - New Roadworks Clearance Activity 1 ............................................................. 32
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
CONTEXT
Part 3 Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
The purpose of Part 3 template (Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets) is to provide Council works
teams and contractors in the field with guidelines on how to best manage likely impacts of roadside
affecting activities on native vegetation for each of the management issue identified and discussed in Part 1
the Council’s RVMP. The Guidelines outline simple principles for mitigating adverse impacts of roadside
affecting activities and outlines recommended approaches for performing these activities as part of their
day-to-day management activities.
The purpose of the Individual Prescription Sheet’s is to provide operational staff/contractors with details of
works to be undertaken for each management issue. Each prescription sheet details the location of where
the proposed works will be undertaken (on a GIS or Google map), the length of roadway where the action
will be implemented, a general description of the proposed works and the management recommendations
based on the best management guidelines contained within the guidelines section of this document. These
prescription sheets are by the Works Manager’s as per the work schedule.
It is envisaged this document sits with and is handed out by the Works Manager to the operational
staff/contractors for use in the field in the implementation of the RVMP. The aim is to improve the
cooperation between the stakeholders in delivering best management practices for roadside vegetation.
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
SECTION 2: MANAGEMENT ISSUE GUIDELINES
2.1
New Roadworks Clearance Guidelines
2.1.1 All Roads
Road construction works involving new roads, widening and re-alignments that result in
clearance of native vegetation, will in most cases require a formal application to and consent
from the Native Vegetation Council (NVC).

Road Design Principles



One wide roadside is preferable to two narrow roadsides.

If widening is necessary where native vegetation is present on both sides, widening
on the narrow roadside is preferred.

The value of roadside vegetation is greater where there is native vegetation adjacent
(outside the road reserve).
Minimising Impacts on Vegetation


District Council of xxx will consider the following design principles when constructing
roads:
To minimise the impact of construction on vegetation the District Council of xxx will:

identify and mark with stakes or tape any significant or protected vegetation, habitat
areas and sensitive areas prior to the commencement of works

limit machinery access

limit soil disturbances

limit vegetation removal

identify the exact location of proposed stockpiles, plant compounds, access roads and
turning areas that limit vegetation damage

borrow pits should be located where native vegetation will not be disturbed

materials for construction works to be taken from disease and weed free sites
Designing Drainage Systems

District Council of xxx will design drainage systems and batters to:

minimise sedimentation of water courses

minimise discharge into disease-susceptible plant communities

control erosion
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.1.2 Sealed Roads

Road Carriageway Widths

New Class A or Class B (sealed) roads are to have a maximum road carriageway width
of 8m, a shoulder width of up to 1.5m and a verge width of up to 3m on either side of the
edge of the sealed carriageway (subject to Section 2.2 Roadside Maintenance and
Section 2.3 Public Safety Clearance of this RVMP).

Vertical Height Clearance

The vertical height clearance envelope of new sealed roads is to be up to a maximum of
5.5m from the edge of the sealed carriageway.
2.1.3 Unsealed Roads

Road Carriageway Widths

New Class A or Class B (unsealed) roads are to have a maximum carriageway width of
8m and a verge width of up to 2m on either side of the carriageway (subject to Section 2.
Public Safety Clearance of this RVMP)

New Class C roads are to have a maximum carriageway width of up to 8m and a verge
width of up to 2m on either side of the carriageway (subject to Section 2.3 Public Safety
Clearance of this RVMP)


New Class D and Class E roads are to have a maximum carriageway width of 7m and a
verge width of up to 2m on either side of the carriageway (subject to Section 2.3 Public
Safety Clearance of this RVMP)
Vertical Height Clearance

The vertical height clearance envelope of all new unsealed roads is to be up to a
maximum of 5.5m from the edge of the grader line
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.2
Roadside Maintenance Guidelines
2.2.1 Sealed Roads

Vertical Height Clearance

A clearance envelope is to be maintained up to a vertical height of 5m from the edge of
the sealed carriageway (Figure 1). Clearance beyond this height will require NVC
approval.
2.2.2 Unsealed Roads

Vertical Height Clearance

A clearance envelope is to be maintained to a vertical height up to 5m from the edge of
the grader line (Figure 1). Clearance beyond this height will require NVC approval.
2.2.3 All Roads
The following codes of practice will be implemented by the District Council with the delegated
responsible officer being the (i.e.) Council Environmental Officer (supply contact details). If
unsure about any environmental controls, contact the site supervisor.




Minimise Weed and Disease Spread

clean down machinery in appropriate areas before entering and when leaving work site

program works to begin with clean machinery in high conservation areas and working
toward degraded sites

only use soil or fill from a weed or disease free site
Turn-around Points

on narrow roads of high or medium conservation value, identify machinery turn-around
points where native vegetation will not be damaged

locate stockpiles, turn-out or lay-down areas on existing cleared land
Grading and Drain Cleaning Operations

avoid damage to roots, bark and limbs

avoid working inside the drip line of trees

avoid working where root damage and soil compaction may occur

remove drain spoil and dispose of appropriately
Herbicides

only use herbicides where vegetation control by mechanical methods is inappropriate

avoid over-spray by not spraying in windy conditions
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets


Vegetation Removal

avoid “cleaning up” vegetation and retain stumps, dead wood and understorey where
possible

carefully prune trees using low impact methods

avoid damaging undergrowth when removing trees

dispose of waste materials at an appropriate site or depot
Machinery Use


only use the appropriate type and minimum size of machinery for the job
Erosion Control

remove as little vegetation as possible and encourage the growth of native vegetation on
batters

maintain drainage systems

minimise soil disturbance
2.2.4 Maintenance of Clearance Envelopes
A clearance envelope across the full width of the traffic lanes is necessary to allow for the
passage of legal height vehicles (4.6 m). To allow for regrowth between pruning and sagging of
branches caused by wet or windy conditions, it is desirable to maintain a vertical clearance of 5
m over the carriageway (Figure 1).
Figure 1: Maintenance of clearance envelope
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.2.5 Secondary Clearance Envelopes
Figure 2: Secondary clearance envelope for signs or guideposts.
A secondary clearance envelope extending up to 300 mm around roadside furniture may also be
sought (Figure 2). Additional vegetation control may be undertaken on the approach side of signs
and delineation devices to ensure that the sign is clearly visible from a distance equivalent to the
stopping sight distance for the speed environment of the road.
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.3
Public Safety Clearance Guidelines
All proposed clearance of roadside native vegetation under public safety Native Vegetation
Regulation 5(1)(lb) must be undertaken in accordance with written approval from the NVC and
must comply with the NVC’s “Managing Native Vegetation- Interim Framework for the
Application of Regulation 5(1)(lb) for Clearance Along Roads, Intersections and at Rail
Crossings for Public Safety Purposes”.
2.3.1 Road Curves

For road curves, the amount of clearance will be determined on a case-by-case basis and,
where practicable, only non-frangible plants impeding visibility will be removed using cut or
cut and swab.

Low growing species and ground covers should be retained.

These clearance zones should be maintained by trimming, slashing and rolling that minimise
soil disturbance.

Avoid grading or bulldozing.
2.3.2 Sight Triangles at Road Intersections and Rail Crossings - Category 1

Both frangible and non-frangible native vegetation (if need be) can be cleared for the
establishment of safe sight lines at road intersections and rail crossings.

Clearance must be consistent with clearance guidelines outlined in Austroad Guide to Road
Design: Part 4: Intersections and Crossings-General 2009, and AS 1742.7:2007 Manual of
uniform traffic control devices, Part 7: Railway Crossings. No SEB is required.
2.3.3 Sealed Roads – Category 2

On sealed roads with a speed design of equal to or less than 80kms/hr, up to 2 metres of
non-frangible native vegetation can be reduced, modified or removed from the edge of
travelled way for the purpose of public safety.

For sealed roads with a speed design greater than 80kms, up to 3 metres of non-frangible
native vegetation can be reduced, modified or removed from the edge of travelled way is
applicable for the purpose of public safety (Table 1).

Clearance of frangible vegetation in Category 2 situations must ahve clearance approval from
the NVC.
Table 1: Sealed roads - Category 2 zone clearance widths
Speed limit
(km/hr)
Category 2 zone widths adjacent to the edge of travelled
way
≤80 km
2m
>80 km
3m
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.3.4 Unsealed Roads – Category 2

On unsealed roads, up to 2 metres either side of the defined travelled way can be cleared of
non-frangible native vegetation for the purpose for public safety.

Clearance of frangible vegetation requires clearance approval from the NVC.

The clearance level is capped at a total width including the travelled way itself of up to 12
metres.

The road authority will need to demonstrate that it has considered the NAMO principles to
avoid or minimise the impacts that any proposed actions may have on biodiversity or native
vegetation.

The road authority must show it has considered other safety improvement options as
opposed to clearance.
2.3.5 Clearance Beyond Category 1 and 2 Zones - Category 3

Category 3 is the native vegetation beyond the Category 1 and 2 zones. Clearance of nonfrangible native vegetation in Category 3 area will require the road authority to justify
clearance for public safety purposes.

Any proposed clearance in this area will require written approval from an NVC authorised
delegate acting on recommendations by NVAP.
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.4
Installation and Maintenance of Utilities Guidelines
2.4.1 Guidelines

Permits

service authorities should notify and discuss all proposed new works on roadsides with
the District Council of xxx to ascertain permit requirements

if required, permit applications are made to the Council and consultation should occur
with the NVC where new services are proposed to be established along roadsides
containing native vegetation and maintenance clearance is in excess of existing
standards

ensure installers have the appropriate training and skills to minimise disturbance to
roadside soils and native vegetation

Positioning


new or replacement services are to be established on cleared land or on low conservation
value roadsides wherever possible
Clearance Requirements

Minimise disturbance and clearance of understorey vegetation and soils (e.g. by vehicles
and machinery) (Also refer to Section 2.2.3 of these guidelines)

existing clearance standards can be maintained without consultation with the NVC
Secretariat, DENR

where existing indigenous vegetation is disturbed, rehabilitate the site to (as close as
practical) the condition prior to commencement of works
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.5
Pest Plant and Animal Control Guidelines
The clearance of native vegetation during programs for control of declared animals and plants
must be kept to the minimum needed for effective pest control (in accordance with advice from
the local NRM / State Authorised Officer or NRM Board) and must be in accordance with these
guidelines.
2.5.1 Pruning of Native Vegetation

The pruning of native vegetation, if essential to provide access for pest animal and plant
control, is acceptable provided that it is kept to a minimum and does not affect the overall
viability of the plant(s) involved.
2.5.2 Spraying of Herbicides in Native Vegetation

Spraying of declared plants in native vegetation is acceptable provided that a careful and
selective approach is used (e.g. spot-spraying) and damage to nearby native vegetation is
avoided or minimised.

The use of herbicides must be in strict accordance with NRM advice and with instructions for
use provided by the manufacturer.

Any broader spraying program in native vegetation (e.g. boom-spraying) requires the
endorsement of the Native Vegetation and Biodiversity Management Unit or NVC Secretariat,
DENR, and may require the consent of the NVC through a clearance application.
2.5.3 Removal of Entire Native Plants

The removal of entire native plants (if considered essential to facilitate animal and plant
control) must be discussed with and endorsed by the Native Vegetation and Biodiversity
Management Unit or NVC Secretariat, DENR.
2.5.4 Site Inspection

Minor clearance of native species known to be common in a district may be resolved through
verbal or electronic communication without the need for site assessment by DENR staff.

For larger scale clearance, or for cases where the identity of the native plants is unclear, a
site inspection will usually be undertaken in consultation with the NVC Secretariat
2.5.5 Landscape Scale Planning Approach

Broader planning arrangements may be developed between NRM Boards / Authorised
Officers and DENR.

It is envisaged that plans of this type would normally be prepared on a Board basis. However,
there may be issues and management approaches of State-wide relevance, in which a Statewide management plan could be prepared, presumably at the initiation of the NRM Board.
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.5.6 General Guidelines
Before conducting any pest plant and animal control activities within road reserve areas,
permission must be sough from the District Council of xxx in liaison with the Regional
Authorised Officer
The control of listed pest plants and declared pest animals should be in accordance with advice
from the local NRM or State Authorised Officer.
Avoid damage to native vegetation as required under the Natural Resources Management Act
2004, Section 193(2)(d)(v).


Pest Plants

Work from areas of low weed infestation in towards more densely infested sections.

Always ensure vehicles and machinery are cleaned before moving into areas of little
weed infestation or High Conservation Value.

Do not slash when weeds are seeding i.e. cut as early in season as possible to limit
potential seed spread.

check the site for pest plants before grading, mowing or clearing

ensure road maintenance material is collected from areas free of pest plants

if material is affected, please contact your supervisor

herbicide shall only be used by trained licensed operators in accordance with
manufacturer’s guidelines

herbicide use should be limited to control of vegetation where mechanical methods are
inappropriate

do not spray herbicides in waterways

ensure that equipment is washed down well away from watercourses

use hand-held equipment for very localised pest control issues
Pest Animals

Baits and poisons should be selected and used in a way which minimizes the risk to
native animals.

Avoid extensive ripping of warrens where there is a good cover of native vegetation.

minimise soil and vegetation disturbance

ensure that all equipment is free of soil and vegetation prior to moving onto and off site
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.6
Soil-borne Pests and Diseases Guidelines
2.6.1 Guidelines
Follow Guidelines for Management - as per ‘Phytophthora Management Guidelines’ by the
Phytophthora Technical Group (2006, 2nd edition), at:
www.environment.sa.gov.au/biodiversity/plants-animals/dieback.html

Cleaning Boots and Vehicles



Boots and vehicles should be cleaned before moving to a new property or area (for
example under the wheel guards). Any tools or equipment taken on to the property and
which are likely to come into contact with plant material or soil should also be cleaned.
Cleaning Equipment Requirements

scraper

sire probe

dust-pan and brush

high-pressure water

pressure-pack sprayer

bottle of disinfectant (mentholated spirits undiluted, or household bleach dilute 1part
bleach and 4 part water)

appropriate personal protective clothing, in particular gloves and eyewear.
Suggested Order of Cleaning

Vehicles and machinery should be cleaned from the top down, to avoid contaminating
areas already cleaned.

Loosen all consolidated materials first.

Remove as much as possible by scraping or brushing.

Wash down, preferably with a high-pressure water blaster.

Spray tyres and under the guards with disinfectant

When using disinfectant avoid contact with skin and eyes and do not breathe in fumes,
vapour or spray.

Decontaminate footwear by scraping off excess soil or plant debris and spraying with
disinfectant particularly the undersides.

Any tools or equipment taken on to the property and which are likely to come into contact
with plant material or soil should be decontaminated by immersion in or thoroughly
spraying with disinfectant.
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.7
Fenceline Clearance Guidelines
2.7.1 Guidelines

Clearance Approval Process

Removal of native vegetation on a road reserve for the purpose of fence construction or
maintenance requires approval from the District Council.

In granting any consent, Council will comply with the following standards:

Where the roadside vegetation consists mainly of trees, only branches protruding
through or overhanging the fence, or trees growing on the actual fence alignment,
should be removed.

Where shrubs or bushes are growing through the fence line, those plants growing
within one (1) metre of the fence alignment can be removed.



Low impact methods of clearance (e.g. minimal ground disturbance, cutting cleanly
rather than breaking branches) should only be used when clearing vegetation
according to the above standards.

Clearance approval from the NVC is required for any native vegetation clearance along
fencelines which exceeds the above standards, or when rare or threatened species
(NPW Act Schedules or EPBC Act 1999) are present.

Any unauthorised clearance will be referred by Council staff to the Native Vegetation and
Biodiversity Management Unit.
Re-locating Fences

Landholders wanting to replace boundary fences may consider re-locating the new
fencing a few metres into their properties to minimise potential impacts on roadside
vegetation. This can also potentially reduce construction and maintenance costs.

The narrow strip between the old and the new fence can be maintained clear of any
regrowth to minimise impacts on the new fence, and also act as a firebreak between the
roadside and the property.

An alternative to the removal of trees in line with the property boundary may include
constructing a simple strut arrangement that allows a fence to deviate a short distance
around a tree. Wires are not attached directly to the tree, thus minimising potential
damage to the tree (Figure 3).
Removal of Cleared Vegetation

Cleared vegetation is to be removed from the site and not left on the road reserve, so as
to minimise disturbance to the remaining vegetation (unless considered habitat features,
eg. Hollow logs, or if small amounts, material may be left on site if it is spread widely and
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
not allowed to form a pile, and is not considered to increase the amount of combustible
material significantly).
Figure 3: A simple strut arrangement that allows a fence to deviate a short distance around a tree. Wires are
not attached directly to the tree, thus minimising potential damage to the tree.
The same strut arrangement seen from the side. The strut holding the wires away from the tree is directly
behind the trunk. The wires are in place, but cannot be seen due to the light at the time the photo was taken.
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.8
Property Access Clearance Guidelines
2.8.1 Guidelines
Clearance of roadside vegetation to provide access to adjoining land requires the consent of the
District Council, and along arterial roads, Department Transport Energy and Infrastructure.
Approval is needed through the NVC for any proposed clearance of native vegetation for access
which exceeds the standards outlined below.
Any unauthorised clearance will be referred by Council staff to the NVC.



Clearance Standards

Calculating safe sight line distance triangles for the clearance of native vegetation should
be limited to meet the required standards outlined in Austroad Guide to Road Design:
Part 4: Intersections and Crossings-General (2009). Proposed clearance beyond
recommended sight distances will require NVC approval.

Where some clearance of native vegetation is unavoidable, this should not exceed the
following standards:
For normal vehicle access: 5 metres wide plus minimum clearance along the road
reserve needed to provide adequate sight distance;

For wider farm vehicles: 10 metres wide plus minimum clearance along the road
reserve needed to provide adequate sight distance.
Avoiding Unnecessary Clearance

When planning an access point, if there is more than one option which will provide safe
access, the option which involves least disturbance of native vegetation, or vegetation of
lower conservation significance should be selected.

Additional access points will not be permitted on Category A road reserves.

Care must also be taken to avoid areas of native grassland and plant communities of
conservation significance.
Vegetation Survey



If the roadside vegetation has not yet been assigned to Category A-E, a vegetation
survey must be undertaken by suitably qualified persons to assign the vegetation present
into these categories prior to undertaking any works.
Removal of Cleared Vegetation

Cleared vegetation is to be removed from the site and not left on the road reserve, so as
to minimise disturbance to the remaining vegetation (unless considered habitat features).
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.9
Bushfire Hazard Reduction Guidelines
All fire prevention works on roadsides should link in with the District Bushfire Risk Management
Plan and subsequent Council BMP or other local management plans and objectives.
Consult SA CFS to plan and evaluate fire prevention works that provide the best practices for the
conservation and fire prevention on roadsides.
2.9.1 Buildings and Structures

Where roadside vegetation may contribute to a threat around a building or structure, clearing
may be permitted subject to written approval of the SA CFS.
2.9.2 Fuel Breaks and Fire Access Tracks

Lawfully established fuel breaks along existing fence lines can be maintained be up to 5m
wide, and 7.5m in designated areas of mallee scrub communities

Any new fuel breaks should either be incorporated into an approved Council BMP or approval
must be sought from SA CFS Regional Prevention Officer.

On well-vegetated road reserve adjoining cleared farmland, fuel breaks should be
constructed on the cleared land side.

To help reduce “funnelling” in unbroken corridors of roadside vegetation, firebreaks up to 20
metres long across the road verge at more than 500m apart can be created on previously
cleared or degraded sites, (gateways degraded sites, previously cleared areas, or on
roadsides of low conservation values)

Soil disturbance should be minimised to reduce potential weed evasion and erosion problems

Fire access tracks should be constructed in accordance with advice from SA CFS Regional
Prevention Officer and information in the SA Government Agencies Fire Liaison Committee
guidelines
2.9.3 Fuel Reduction in Roadside Vegetation

Any plans to burn for fuel reduction purposes are to be referred to the SA CFS for advice.
This information should be contained in an approved BMP.

To encourage natural regeneration of native vegetation and discourage the invasion of exotic
weeds, the frequency and intensity of burns should be minimised.

Slashing, mowing, trimming, rolling and removal of woody weeds are the preferred fuel
reduction methods

Grazing and herbicide use should only be contemplated where no or minimal impact upon
native vegetation is likely

Limit the use of herbicides to spraying:
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets


around road furniture;

for selective control of particular weeds where it is the most appropriate means of
control;

to control growth of potentially serious weeds on firebreaks (subject to the
approval of the SA CFS Regional Prevention Officer);

when weather conditions will minimise the likelihood of spray drift affecting nontarget plants.
Reduce Spread of Weeds


Design slashing programs to begin with clean machinery in high conservation
value areas and work towards the more degraded sites. This will assist in the
prevention of further spread of weeds.
Grading Firebreaks

Ploughing, cultivating and grading roadsides to create firebreaks disturb soil,
encourages the spread of weed species and soil-borne pathogens, and destroys
remnant vegetation. If no other technique is appropriate, grading is preferred over
ploughing and cultivation.

These works should be subject to the approval of the SA CFS Regional Prevention
Officer and in accordance with the Council BMP.
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.10 Grazing Guidelines
2.10.1 Guidelines

Clearance Approval



There is evidence of recent or periodic regeneration of native plant species.
Grazing licenses will only be issued after the conservation value of roadsides has been
assessed with permits only being issued along roadsides of low conservation value.
New proposals for grazing of native vegetation in undeveloped road reserves require
clearance approval from the NVC, as would any change in grazing practice which
increased the pressure on native vegetation.
Leased Roads


Native shrub and understorey species are present;
Undeveloped Road Reserves



Issuing Grazing Licenses


Clearance approval by the NVC is required for any grazing (other than associated with
droving or fire prevention in Category D-E roadside vegetation) likely to cause damage to
native roadside vegetation. This includes roadsides where:
Where important native vegetation is identified on leased roads, it should be protected
through a management agreement or through removal of the area from the lease.
Fire Prevention

Proposals for grazing to aid in fuel reduction for fire prevention should be referred to the
SA Country Fire Services for decisions.
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.11 Droving Stock Guidelines
2.11.1 Guidelines


Consent

Grazing of roadsides require written consent of the Council

Where the movement of livestock is over a long distance, consultation shall be held with
the local council, the local Natural Resource Management Authorised Officer, and the
NVC Secretariat.
Droving Routes

Droving routes should avoid roadsides containing high quality vegetation (Category A or
B) where possible.


Droving Stock

Stock must be free of pest plants and disease.

Stock must be kept moving at all times.
Signage

Appropriate signage must be placed an adequate distance from stock moving along
roads warning vehicles of the potential hazard.
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.12 Recreational Use of Road Reserves (Including Undeveloped
Roads) Guidelines
2.12.2 Guidelines

Consent

Council permission is required for any planned recreational events within road reserve
areas

Any unlawful off-road activities within road reserve areas are to be reported to Council
and the Police.


Any trails need to be part of an overall district or regional trails plan developed with the
local council.
Trail Establishment

When designating a trail alignment, avoid Category A-C areas of high or moderate
conservation value vegetation.

Trails should not be established where clearance of native vegetation would result. Only
if the trail is a vital part of a network and if there is no reasonable alternative should any
clearance of native vegetation be contemplated, in consultation with the NVBMU.

Trails must only be established where the soil type and/or slope will not result in erosion,
or specific measures to prevent the erosion are implemented.

Effective monitoring programs must be incorporated into any trail development.

Signpost and fence areas of high conservation value to prevent threatening activities.

Consider elevated trails (boardwalks) over drainage lines in high conservation value
areas.

Trails must not be established where their use is likely to introduce weeds or assist the
spread of weeds on the road reserve unless there is a clear commitment to a weed
eradication program.

Monitor the impacts of horse riding on areas of high and medium conservation value, and in
locations where drainage and/or erosion problems occur.
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.13 Cultivation and Cropping Guidelines
2.13.1 Guidelines

Permits

Permits for cropping practices will only be given for low conservation value roadsides

Landholders currently cropping in road reserve areas require ongoing permission from
the council.

Cropping or hay making on roadsides may continue on previously worked areas only or
otherwise permitted by Council local laws

Storage of hay will only be permitted on previously cleared roadside land containing no
native vegetation

Cropping activities will not be permitted on Category A-C high to moderate conservation
value vegetation.

Phase out cropping on roadsides and encourage perennial summer growing native
grasses as an alternative cover for firebreaks.
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.14 Removal of Plant Material Guidelines
2.14.1 Collection of Dead Timber
[If prohibiting collection for firewood purposes]

Collection will not be permitted unless necessary for fuel reduction, to assist rabbit
control, or to remove timber which is hazardous to traffic or fencing,

Care must be taken not to damage surrounding native vegetation in the process of
removal.
(If allowing collection for firewood purposes)

Dead timber collected must be fallen and not contain hollows (which can be used as
shelter by wildlife),

Avoid removal of dead timber from roadsides with higher quality vegetation, eg. Cat A, B,
and C to avoid damaging habitat for wildlife (i.e. reptiles, etc) and small native plants
adapted to and protected by the sheltered conditions provided by fallen timber (fallen
timber may protect small plants physically from grazing by rabbits/kangaroos etc, and
also provide optimal conditions for survival – darker and moister micro-habitat).
2.14.2 Cutting of Live Timber

Many of the guidelines in this Plan refer to the cutting of live timber for necessary
roadside management purposes (e.g. to keep verges clear). Any cutting of live timber
outside of the scope of these guidelines requires the consent of the District Council of
xxx and also clearance consent under the Native Vegetation Act, 1991.
2.14.3 Brush-cutting

The cutting of brush (Melaleuca uncinata) on roadsides requires clearance approval
unless it is undertaken in accordance with other guidelines in this booklet.
2.14.4 Seed Collection

Revegetation programs using local native species are strongly supported and roadsides
are often ideal sites for seed collection. However, care is needed to minimise the
damage to the parent plant and to avoid depleting the seed supply to such an extent that
natural regeneration of plants on the roadside is affected.

Seed collection from roadsides requires the consent of the District Council of xxx. A
permit is also needed under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 and can be
requested from DENR. DENR can also provide guidance on how to collect seed.

On private land, seed collection requires the consent of the landholder and, if the plant is
a prescribed species under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972, a permit from
DENR is also needed.
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.14.5 Flower Harvesting

The harvesting of flowers from roadsides requires the consent of the District Council of
xxx and clearance consent from the NVC. The District Council of xxx will be the first
point of contact.

In general, harvesting of roadside flowers, particularly for commercial purposes, is not
favoured because of its impact on the vegetation and on the landscape or amenity of the
area.
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.15 Maintenance of Vegetation Diversity Guidelines
2.15.1 Guidelines


Approvals

Formal NVC approval is required for vegetation clearance involving lopping, burning or
other disturbance of native vegetation

Regional Authorised Officers approval is required for the control of pest plant and animal
species from within roadside reserves.
Consultation

Consult with the Local Action Planning groups to initiate the establishment of local
Bushcare groups and projects.


Involve community groups in programs for the planting of indigenous vegetation on
roadside reserves.
Natural Regeneration

Encourage natural regeneration in High and Medium Conservation Value roadsides

Avoid planting any trees or shrubs in grasslands.
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.16 Protection of Vegetation of High Conservation Significance
Guidelines
2.16.1 Guidelines

Approvals

Work should not start on areas identified with significant roadside vegetation without
seeking approval of the appropriate road authority or District Council Works Manager

When a rare and threatened or significant flora species is located on the roadside, DENR
must be contacted to provide advice on the appropriate action.




Any removal of native vegetation will require prior consultation with the NVC.
Machinery Use

Unless unavoidable, all machinery should be kept out of areas that have been identified
as environmentally or culturally significant

Roadside activities should not result in a loss of native vegetation or biodiversity. Where
native vegetation or biodiversity will be lost, consideration should be given to relocating
the proposed roadwork activity.

Where it is not possible to avoid all impacts, identify other areas of native vegetation that
could be managed better to be used as potential offsets for the clearance as a SEB.
Roadside Markers

Ensure the information relating to sites of rare and threatened species, vegetation
associations and threatening processes on roadsides is provided where relevant.

Significant sites that need special care and attention should be protected by a Significant
Roadside Area sign or with an Environmental Marker.

Where appropriate, mark wildlife corridors with a Wildlife Area sign.

Roadside Significant Sites (Category A and B) determined during the roadside vegetation
survey should have appropriate signage erected (RMS). Segments of roadside
vegetation that have been identified as Category A are of first priority, followed by
category B. This is particularly for the benefit of Council staff and contractors.
Database

A database of all Roadside Significant Sites is to be established and maintained.

Ensure the information relating to sites of rare and threatened species, vegetation
associations and threatening processes on roadsides is provided where relevant.

Training
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets

Council staff and contractors who undertake work within road reserves are to undertake
training programs to develop work practices that ensure the protection of Roadside
Significant Sites.

During the planning phase, identify any potential impacts of proposed roadworks
activities on native vegetation and biodiversity and identify measures to avoid these
impacts on native vegetation or biodiversity.
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
2.17 Restoration and Revegetation on Roadside Reserves
Guidelines
2.17.1 Guidelines

Consultation

Permission must be granted by council for revegetation / rehabilitation projects on
roadsides.

Consult with the relevant agencies and interest groups within the council area to identify
priority sites for revegetation activities

Utilities


Natural Regeneration

In Vegetation Categories A, B and C areas encourage natural regeneration.

Encourage natural regeneration by conducting pre-post pest plant and animal control
works.

Encourage natural regeneration as much as possible, except when:


Replanting near powerlines must comply with the legislation and guidelines of the ETSA
Corporation.

it interferes with the road, drains, signage and road construction and widening

prevents adequate access for emergency vehicles

it creates a safety risk

overhead powerlines exist

it is used as a strategic firebreak

it is an area of historical or cultural significance
Encourage conditions suitable for regeneration by:

burning

reducing grazing pressures

controlling weeds using the most appropriate methods available
Direct Seeding

Plan revegetation projects one year in advance for adequate seed collection and site
preparation.

Use seed collected locally and include overstorey, understorey and grass layers.
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets



In Vegetation Categories D and E areas, direct seeding using locally collected native
seeds may be a cost effective method for larger scale projects.

Where environmental degradation (erosion, weed invasion) may occur or natural
regeneration is unlikely supplementary plantings or direct seeding is recommended.
Planning

Target revegetation programs to linking good quality but fragmented remnants to provide
continuous vegetation.

Plan a maintenance regime for the site at least two years after planting.

In general, lower shrub species should be planted on the windward side grading to taller
vegetation on the leeward side.
Environmental Weeds

Avoid plants that are known environmental weeds

Avoid planting species that could spread into nearby bushland

Refrain from planting trees in native grassland areas
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets
SECTION 3: INDIVIDUAL PRESCRIPTION SHEETS – (Example)
3.1 Prescription Sheet - New Roadworks Clearance Activity 1
Location: Widen and seal Pages Flat Road between Yacka Road and Wakefield Road 2kms
south of Yumba township
Insert Google Map of identified area of proposed
works for that section of roadway
Length: 200m
Vegetation Description:

Category B road, Category A vegetation in excellent condition. Contains a dense forest
community of xxxx, with a complex midstorey of xxxx and grassy understory understorey of
xxxx.

The District Council of xxx is proposing to clear 62 native roadside trees to widen and seal
the road to accommodate heavy transport involved in the harvest of blue gum plantations.
Management Issue:

The main management issue is clearing of native trees of high conservation significance for
the proposed widening of the roadway.
Management Guidelines:

Identify and mark with stakes or tape any significant or protected vegetation, habitat areas
and sensitive areas prior to the commencement of works

Identify the exact location of proposed stockpiles, plant compounds, access roads and turning
areas that limit vegetation damage

No parking of machinery or plant on road verge.

No windrows on road verge from roadworks.

Limit machinery access

Limit soil disturbances

Limit vegetation removal

Borrow pits should be located where native vegetation will not be disturbed
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District Council of XXXX Guidelines & Individual Prescription Sheets

Materials for construction works to be taken from disease and weed free sites

Boots and vehicles should be cleaned before moving to a new property or area (for example
under the wheel guards).

When a rare and threatened or significant flora species is located on the roadside, DENR
must be contacted to provide advice on the appropriate action.

Any removal of native vegetation will require prior consultation with the NVC.
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