- Open date
02 April 2026
Last update date: 19 May 2026
We’re on the verge of clearing up the mystery! Ever wondered what you can (and can’t) do with your verge? You’re not alone. From puzzling rules to parking dilemmas, verge questions pop up everywhere, and we’re here to make things simple, safe, and fun.
Verge care comes with plenty of quirks and curiosities, and that’s exactly what this page is here to explore. From everyday surprises to “wait, is that allowed?” moments, we’re unpacking your mysteries one verge at a time, whether it’s about safety, sustainability, or keeping our streets welcoming for everyone.
Did you know?
- A verge is the area of land between your property boundary line and the kerb
- The general maintenance of verges is the responsibility of the adjacent householder
- Parking on someone else’s verge without permission isn’t allowed
- Clean, healthy verges can even increase property values.
This page is your one-stop shop for myth-busting tips and answers to questions like:
- Who maintains what?
- Can I park on a verge?
- What’s the deal with verge gardens and trees?
- Where does all that rubbish go?
Through community engagement, you’ve told us that compliance with standards and obligations is important to you – and that naturally includes verge and crossover policies.
So join the conversation, learn the rules, and help keep Stirling’s streets safe, tidy, and beautiful.
On the verge of a meltdown, misunderstanding or mystery?
Drop your question in the box below and we'll answer it in our ‘Your FAQs answered’ section so the whole community can benefit, because we’re on the verge of making a difference together!
Can I put a trampoline on my verge?
You’ll need approval before placing play equipment on your verge. Assessment factors include whether there is already space on your property to place the item, safety distances (a minimum of two metres from footpaths, roads and driveways), and any potential impacts on street trees. To apply, email development@stirling.wa.gov.au with your name and address, details of the equipment, and a simple sketch showing where you intend to place it.
Can I create a parking bay on my verge? What materials are allowed?
Yes, this can be done by submitting a free Verge Treatment Application. In general, up to one-third of your verge area (excluding the crossover) can be treated as hardstand using materials such as concrete, brick paving or synthetic turf. Assessment factors include distances from street trees and whether kerb modifications are possible. If there is enough space to park another vehicle entirely within your property, you may be able to apply for a second crossover instead, via a free Residential Crossover Application.
Can I use gravel or pebbles with a stabilisation grid in my native verge garden?
For now, gravel and pebbles are not permitted as part of verge treatments. This may change in the future as part of the review of the Public Thoroughfares and Local Law 2009.
Who looks after the verge when one property sits behind another?
The verge is maintained by the property that directly adjoins it, being the street-facing (front) property.
Need technical policies, requirements or permit applications? Streets, verges, crossovers and traffic is where you’ll find all the official and authoritative information.
Want to know more about footpaths on verges? Head to the Footpaths program page.
Planning a waterwise native verge? Living green is your go-to for garden guidance.
Need help with verge issues right now? Enquiries is where you can report or request verge matters like trip hazards.
Use those page for the formal steps, then come back here for the simple, fun version.
Official documents including the Verge Treatment Policy, Verge Treatment Guidelines and Crossover Policy are also set for review so check back regularly for easy-to-understand updates as they become available.
Verge-related issues come up frequently during community engagements and customer enquiries, especially around overgrown vegetation, verge or footpath hazards, and breaches of permit conditions.
Myth 1: “Council is responsible for maintaining verges.”
While verges are public land managed by the City, the maintenance of verge treatments is the responsibility of the adjacent householder. This includes mowing lawns, weed control, pruning native gardens, topping up mulch and maintaining approved pavement or synthetic turf.
The City is responsible for maintaining street trees and footpaths. The City also mows verges on major roads only that require traffic management. If a verge elsewhere becomes unkempt to the point that it creates a safety or visibility issue, the City may step in to carry out a basic tidy-up only, with clippings left on site.
Myth 2: “I can do whatever I want with my verge.”
Not quite. Verges are public land, so there are rules to keep streets safe, accessible and functional.
You can personalise your verge but only within the City’s guidelines. Some things require approval (like paving or synthetic turf), and some things aren’t allowed at all (like hazards, obstructions or damaging tree roots).
The goal isn’t to restrict creativity. It’s to make sure verge treatments are safe for pedestrians, protect underground utilities, and remain accessible.
Myth 3: “Anyone can park on anyone’s verge.”
Parking on a verge requires the adjacent householder’s permission, unless signage or rules say otherwise. Even with permission, or when parking on your own verge, you cannot park commercial vehicles, buses, trailers or caravans (unattached to a motor vehicle). Parking that blocks sightlines, damages infrastructure, or creates safety hazards can result in fines.
By contrast, anyone can park on the street in front of a property unless signage indicates otherwise. This includes vehicles such as trades vans parked on the street while building or renovating a home.
Myth 4: “Council does nothing about rubbish dumped on verges.”
Dumping rubbish on verges is illegal and can result in fines.
Residents have plenty of legal disposal options, including skip bins, recycling centres and scheduled waste services. Skip bins must be placed safely to avoid obstructing footpaths or sightlines.
If you spot illegal dumping, you can report it to the City. The City investigates reports and arranges appropriate clean-up where needed, and may issue infringements to those responsible.
We’re growing this page over time and we want your help.
If you’re on the verge of a meltdown, misunderstanding or mystery, let us know! We’ll turn the most common questions into helpful community FAQs for everyone.
Check back regularly for new content including verge videos, tips, and answers shaped by your conversations and community sentiment.
On the Verge of Greatness
