Have Your Say: Final Round of Consultation on Community Local Laws

Thank you to everyone who participated in the first and second rounds of consultation.
We received feedback through our Engage Mansfield page, written submissions and conversations with community members, Councillors, Victoria Police and local stakeholders. Your insights have directly shaped the next version of the Community Local Law.
The final round of community engagement will run for the duration of 3 weeks, from: Friday 13 February 2026 → Friday 6 March 2026
During this period, the community will have the opportunity to review the refined draft Community Local Law, see how earlier feedback has been incorporated, and provide final comments before the draft undergoes legal review and is presented to Council in April 2026.
How to Have Your Say
This is your final opportunity to shape the Community Local Law before it is finalised.
You can:
- Read the updated draft documents (Community Local Law and the Policy & Procedure Manual)
Complete the online survey - Community Local Law Survey is attached.
- Submit ideas or suggestions via the Ideas tool
- Review printed copies and submit written feedback at:
- Council Office
- Mansfield Library
- Visitor Information Centre
- Youth Centre
Feedback closes: Friday 6 March 2026
What’s Been Updated Since the Last Round
Based on the feedback received during the second round, a number of important changes have been made. These changes aim to improve clarity, reduce administrative burden, and ensure the Local Law is practical, enforceable and aligned with community expectations.
What’s Been Refined:
- Alcohol Regulations
- Camping and Caravans on Private Land
- Recreational Vehicles on Private Land (e.g., motorbikes, ATVs)
- Tree Protection Rules Expanded
- Storage and Condition of Land
- Shipping Containers
- Drones
- Council Drains
A full list of clause‑by‑clause updates is available in the draft documents, please refer to them for further details.
Why These Changes Matter
Community feedback highlighted the need to:
- reduce over‑regulation
- improve clarity and readability
- ensure rules are practical for rural and residential properties
- maintain protections for safety, amenity and the environment
- simplify permits and remove duplication with state and federal laws
The updated draft aims to achieve a balanced approach—protecting community expectations while streamlining processes and reducing unnecessary red tape
What Happens Next
Following this consultation:
- All feedback will be reviewed and incorporated where appropriate
- A legal review will be completed during February
- Councillors will receive a briefing on 7 April 2026
- The final draft will be presented for consideration at the 21 April 2026 Council Meeting
Thank you for your contribution!
Help us reach out to more people in the community
Share this with family and friends