Shire of Waroona urges landholders, contractors to seek approval before clearing land after prosecution

The Shire of Waroona is urging landholders and contractors to seek advice before clearing any land after a recent successful court prosecution.

The offender was found guilty of illegally clearing land that required formal approval and was find over $75,000.

"The Court found that the works were not exempt, extended beyond standard fire mitigation practices, and included interference with 
vegetation on a Shire-managed road reserve," Shire President Mike Walmsley said.

"The offender had also failed to comply with a formal direction issued by the Shire."

Mr Walmsley said the penalties serve as a deterrent, reinforcing that landowners must seek and obtain appropriate approvals before clearing or 
undertaking works that alter land conditions.

"The Shire recognises that many landowners are motivated by genuine concerns, such as their ability to conduct their business and bushfire safety, but emphasizes that even well-intentioned works can have unintended environmental and legal consequences if not carried out within the law," he said.

Community members wanting to clear land should get in contact with the Shire first.