Perth community petition to keep trampolines on front verges as backyards shrink

A western suburbs community is taking up arms in a bid to allow the humble trampoline pride of place in front of homes.

A petition, lodged on the City of Stirling’s e-petitions web page on Monday, said trampolines and other play equipment on verges fostered social interaction in a time when backyard sizes were shrinking.

Well-maintained play equipment can coexist and enhance urban environments say residents.Credit: Marion McAllister

By Tuesday afternoon the petition had garnered more than 740 signatures from City residents, and is growing.

Petition creator Marion McAllister said she received a notice to remove her own front yard trampoline – which had been on the verge for three years – as it was in breach of the City’s Thoroughfares and public place local law 2009.

After posting a link to the petition on social media she found out she wasn’t alone, with others commenting they had received the same letter.

“Because kids have played on our trampoline we’ve got to know people in the street and surrounding neighbourhood,” she said.

“It reminds me of when I was younger and my grandparents had one of those old school swings out the front.

“It’s part of an Aussie childhood, which I think would be really sad if the kids lose.”

Since lodging the petition, McAllister said she was granted a permit to keep the trampoline.

However, a swing out the front is still being investigated as a potential hazard.

While she was granted permission for her trampoline, she said City staff told her play equipment was only allowed in front yards when there wasn’t sufficient space in backyards.

“But that defeats the whole community purpose of having equipment on verges,” she said.

“Just two days before I got the letter another mum said how grateful she was for it because they don’t have space in their yard for a trampoline.

“I think the council just needs some sort of common-sense aspect around it; as long as they’re safe and maintained and they’re not a risk to traffic or pedestrians.”

In 2018, the neighbouring City of Vincent overhauled its policies to reflect council and community sentiment on the use of rope swings, tree decorations, edible gardens and native verges.

The amended policy for street trees allows residents to attach ladders, swings, cubbies and platforms, as well as decorations and lighting.

The petition encouraged Stirling council to follow.

“Successful policies in councils such as Vincent show the benefits of verge play equipment,” the petition said.

“Well-maintained play equipment can coexist with street trees, enhancing the urban environment.

A City of Stirling spokeswoman said play equipment on verges were assessed on a case-by-case basis using a “pragmatic approach” that promotes a healthy lifestyle and safety.

“The City sometimes receives complaints regarding the use of residential verges and we investigate these to ensure the area is safe,” she said.

“Once this petition has closed, it will be verified and then tabled at Council.”

The use of verges within the City is guided by the Thoroughfares and Public Places Local Law, scheduled for review in March 2025.