The City of Marion recognises there are many benefits to residents developing and maintaining the verge adjoining their property. Key benefits include greening of our local streets, improving local biodiversity and establishing greener corridors throughout our city.
The Verge Incentive Fund provides a rebate to encourage more residents to beautify the verge area, in line with the Verge Development Guidelines.
A total of 50 per cent of the costs of developing the verge, capped at a rebate of $500 per property can be applied for.
There are a limited number of rebates available.
See below for more information.
Who can apply?
Applications for funding can only be submitted by the property owner or tenant directly adjoining the verge being developed in the City of Marion.
Tenants can apply provided they have prior approval from the property owner.
The Verge Incentive Fund is not available to residents of newly developed properties (less than 12 months from final build completion).
In the case of multi-unit dwellings, the applications must be submitted by the Strata.
When can I apply?
You can apply at any time.
The best time to plant on your verge is generally between May - September.
How long will it take to receive approval once I have submitted my online application?
A staff member will contact you within four weeks to discuss your application. Your approval may take longer and be subject to certain conditions.
How long do I have to complete the verge development?
Once you have been notified of your approval, you will have six weeks to complete the verge development. If it is anticipated to take longer, please contact Council to discuss.
What if I need to alter the verge development plan, after I have submitted and received approval for it?
A total of 50 per cent of the costs of developing the verge, as per the Verge Development Guidelines, capped at a rebate of $500 per property. For example, if you spend $1000 on your verge development, subject to Council approval, you will be eligible for a $500 rebate (50 per cent of total spend).
What can the funds be used for?
The following items are eligible for funding:
Growing medium e.g. soil, compost, loam
Natural coloured gravel
Plants
Mulch
Mechanical excavation (by a licensed contractor only)
Lawn
Irrigation (pipes, trenching, systems, etc)
Wicking beds
Funding will be in the form of a reimbursement payment, via bank transfer, once the development has been completed and a copy of the receipt/s, verge rebate application form, proof of residency and completion photo are submitted to Council.
What is ineligible for funding?
Funding is NOT available for:
Any works undertaken on the verge prior to the approval of the application
Street trees (you can submit a street tree planting request to Council)
Items in the Verge Development Guidelines listed as 'not permitted'
How do I make an application?
The application process involves the following steps:
