Managing landslip and erosion risk
Vegetation plays an important role in reducing erosion and stabilising soil to minimise the risk of landslip.
A landslip can occur when the ground is not strong enough to support its own weight, causing a slope to collapse. Land slippage can result in significant damage to buildings and is a risk to life, both on and below the landslip area. The removal of vegetation, particularly deep-rooted, long lasting trees, and plants that have a large root system, can increase landslip risk.
Erosion occurs when soil is lost through rain, wind or the repeated movement of people, animals or vehicles. In dry periods erosion can cause dust problems. During and after significant rainfall events, erosion can lead to blocked drains, damaged pumps and damaged stream systems by clouding the water and smothering habitat. Erosion results in the loss of valuable topsoil, reduces soil fertility and makes it difficult for grass or other vegetation to regrow.
How can I identify landslip and erosion risk?
Some areas prone to landslip or erosion are identified in planning schemes by the Erosion Management Overlay. You can check if an Erosion Management Overlay applies to your land by obtaining a Planning Property Report. Not all areas that are prone to landslip or erosion are covered by the Erosion Management Overlay. For more information about the risk in your area contact your local council.
How should I respond to landslip and erosion risk?
While some vegetation can be removed around a house for bushfire protection without council approval, you should consider landslip and erosion risk before doing so. Vegetation management is only one part of preparing your property for bushfire and there are other important steps you can take.
More information
- Information about clearing vegetation to prepare for bushfire in areas prone to landslip is provided in the Information sheet: Making Victoria Fire ready – Managing erosion and landslip risk, on the Department of Sustainability and Environment’s web page Native vegetation: Landholder Information at www.dse.vic.gov.au
- More information about understanding your bushfire risk and about preparing your property for bushfire is available from the CFA website or by contacting the Victorian Bushfire Information Hotline on 1800 240 667.
- Information about landslip and erosion is available on the Department of Primary Industries website at www.dpi.vic.gov.au