AN Orelia property owner was fined $5000 for having an excessively untidy property following repeated warnings from the City of Kwinana to tidy it up.
Kwinana Mayor Carol Adams said the City pursued legal proceedings against the owner who she said had “repeatedly failed to comply with notices issued under the Local Government Act”.
“After the notices were not acted upon, the City pursued legal proceedings, resulting in a penalty of more than $5000 being issued by the court against the owner,” Cr Adams said.
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READ NOWShe said the City had requested the removal of overgrown vegetation, rubbish, disused material and unregistered or wrecked vehicles.
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Cr Adams said the City was increasing efforts to improve the amenity of neighbourhoods.
“The accumulation of disused vehicles, rubbish and overgrown grass can cause issues far beyond untidy appearance,” she said.
“Among other problems, the property can become a fire hazard or breeding ground for pests and rodents, placing the health and safety of neighbouring residents at risk.”
She said the City took property compliance very seriously.
“In the first instance we always endeavour to work with home owners to address any compliance issues,” Cr Adams said.
It allows a “very reasonable” amount of time to correct issues.
“However when these issues are not addressed, we have no choice but to take action,” she said.
“I encourage all Kwinana residents to take responsibility for the tidiness and safety of their own properties, and remember that penalties can be imposed for ignoring notices issued by the City.”