Register a roadside tribute

Guidelines for placement, safety and registration

The placement of roadside tributes is a matter for individual families and is recognised as an important part of the grieving process for people dealing with the loss of life of a loved one involved in road trauma. These guidelines are intended to offer support and practical advice to help families navigate placement, safety and registration.

The Roadside Tributes Policy provides guidance on the installation, removal or relocation of roadside tributes such as flowers or memorabilia. It applies to all local roads within the Central Coast Council Local Government Area. 

Transport for NSW (TfNSW) should be contacted for advice regarding tributes on state roads such as Central Coast Highway, Brisbane Water Drive, Scenic Drive and Sparks Road. For information regarding on roadside memorials on state roads, go to Roadside tributes, Transport for NSW (TfNSW).

Tribute guidelines

1. Only one tribute per loved one/person is permitted.
2. Any individual wishing to erect a roadside tribute is encouraged to discuss with the family members, prior to placement.
3. The location should not unreasonably detract from the amenity of the local area or seriously detract from the reasonable quality of life expected by adjacent landowners or property owners, with consideration to nearby residents, who may have also experienced trauma.
4. The maintenance of roadside tributes is the responsibility of the family or individuals who placed them.
5. Tributes are considered temporary and will be permitted for a period of up to 13 months from date of placement.

Tribute requirements

By registering a tribute, the applicant agrees that the roadside tribute must:

• consist of frangible* materials such as flowers and/or memorabilia.
• be secured to prevent dispersion by weather conditions.
• be placed in a position that does not obstruct pedestrians or pose a risk to other road users by distracting drivers’ attention.
• not exceed a height of 500mm and width of 400mm.
• not be attached to adjacent private property fencing, unless agreed to by the property owner.
• not be constructed of materials that could cause a hazard to road users.
• not have lighting or contain fluorescent materials.
• not have metal or stone components.
• no music or amplification is permitted. Visitors are encouraged to keep noise to a minimum if visiting the area.
• must not restrict access for utility or emergency services or prevent maintenance of road reserve.
• not interfere with the role of any traffic control device i.e., roundabouts, or traffic signals.

* materials that are designed to be easily broken or crumble upon impact intentionally for safety or functionality purposes

Register your tribute

We are able to provide guidance to any enquiries regarding the placement of a roadside tribute. To discuss a roadside tribute location or ask questions, please contact us on 02 4306 7900 and ask to speak to the Unit Manager of Engineering Services.

Alternatively, families or representative of the family may register a roadside tribute with Council by completing the Registration Form.

Roadside tributes may be placed without formal approval but must be registered with Council for record keeping purposes.

Registering roadside tributes will create a safer environment for families and visitors, as well as pedestrians and motorists travelling through the area. It also allows for respectful contact with a family member or representative if maintenance, roadworks or safety concerns arise that may affect the roadside tribute.


Roadside tribute registration form

Support and contact

We understand this can be a difficult time for families and loved ones experiencing grief and support is available.

Questions or placement advice

Phone: (02) 4306 7900

Additional support services 

Beyond Blue 
Lifeline