Developing the new Local Laws

The proposed Maintenance of Works in Waterway Areas Local Law 2023 and Maintenance of Works in Waterway Areas Subordinate Local Law 2023 were developed as part of the Local Laws Review that was undertaken by Council from early 2021 to late 2023.

During public consultation on the Local Law we received a strong response. As a result, we have been spending more time considering in detail the feedback and specific issues raised. The law is now being progressed separately to the Local Laws Review project that has now concluded.

Local Laws Review project

Local Laws help to create the region residents want to live in and prevent issues residents want to avoid. They play a critical role in governing a diverse range of matters including:

  • where and how signs can be installed/displayed
  • what pets residents can keep
  • permitted activities on public and private land
  • maintaining environmental health and cleanliness
  • even what to do about dumped shopping trolleys.

When council amalgamation occurred in 2008, the Local Laws of three previous councils (Caboolture Shire, Pine Rivers Shire and Redcliffe City) were brought together to create a suite of six Local Laws and many subordinate laws, that over time were increased to eight Local Laws. These Local Laws were inconsistent, contradictory at times, and today no longer reflect the expectations, needs and lifestyles of our growing communities.

Council undertook the Local Laws Review project to:

  • enhance the relevance, effectiveness and currency of the laws
  • improve interpretation and understanding of the laws
  • ensure the laws are up-to-date with current legislative requirements
  • rationalise legislation governing issues where there are inconsistencies or duplication across laws
  • streamline administrative processes and reduce red tape.

Consultation undertaken

As part of the Local Laws Review project, Council undertook an extensive engagement program, including first consulting on matters relevant to the maintenance of works in waterway areas and then consulting on the proposed Maintenance of Works in Waterway Areas Local Law 2023 and Maintenance of Works in Waterway Areas Subordinate Local Law 2023.

You can read more about the consultation that was undertaken in the Local Laws Review Communication and Engagement Summary Report, August 2023.