Macedon Ranges residents have until April 30 to have their say on local law changes that range from street parking to shopping trolley restrictions.
Use of fireworks is just one new addition to the local law, with four options ranging from a blanket shire ban to no local law change at all.
Changes to the use of fireworks are being considered in response to increased use at private venues and complaints from residents relating to animal welfare, environmental impact and increased fire risk.
At present, a council permit is not required for a firework display in the Macedon Ranges.
To use fireworks, the operator must hold a pyro technician licence, notify Worksafe Victoria in advance of the display, and ensure they comply with a range of legislative requirements.
Local law changes could also see heavy and long vehicle parking and storage prohibited on private land in residential zones less than one acre.
Existing heavy and/or long vehicle permits will remain valid until they expire, however, once expired, these will not be renewed, the draft law explains.
The council stated the change was in response to an increasing number of complaints regarding disruption to neighbours and damage to council services and assets.
New requirements for shopping trolley owners would mean that where more than 10 are provided, the owner must fit trolleys with either a functioning coin deposit and release mechanism or an alternate, locking mechanism approved by council.
Rationale behind the move is to “reduce the number of shopping trolleys left around townships, including on council land, roads, and in public places as well as in our waterways”.
Other local law changes include prohibiting display of gambling advertisements on council land/roadways, use of scare guns, use of camping/caravan/motor home, use of motorised recreation vehicles, introduction of ‘Smoke Free Zones’ and increased penalty units (from $100 to $175).
Residents have until 5pm this Sunday (April 30) to have their say by making a submission to the draft local law.
To view the full list of changes, or to lodge a submission, visit: mrsc.vic.gov.au and follow links to the ‘Have Your Say’ page.
