The Essential Guide to Kerb Ramp Regulations in Australia

Kerb ramps are a simple yet effective way to create a smooth transition from the road to your driveway, protecting vehicles and improving accessibility. But while they may seem straightforward, the rules around installing kerb ramps—especially on public property—can be more complex than you’d think.

Do you need council approval? What are the key regulations you need to follow? This guide focuses on council requirements for kerb ramps in Australia and provides practical advice to help you stay compliant.

What are Rubber Kerb Ramps?

Kerb ramps are inclined planes designed to bridge height differences between driveways and roads. Commonly made from materials like recycled rubber or metal, they’re versatile and beneficial for both vehicles and accessibility aids like wheelchairs and strollers.

Why Use Kerb Ramps?

Protect Vehicles: Prevent damage to undercarriages and reduce wear and tear on shock absorbers.
Improve Accessibility: Help people with mobility challenges navigate kerbs more easily.
Reduce Hazards: Minimise risks associated with uneven or steep driveway edges.

What About Compliance with AS 1428?

AS 1428.1 is the Australian Standard for ensuring access for people with disabilities. If your kerb ramp is intended to provide wheelchair accessibility, it must comply with:

Gradient Requirements: The maximum slope for a general access ramp is 1:14. However, for kerb ramps, the gradient can be steeper, up to 1:8 (1 unit of rise for every 8 units of run). Ensure the slope adheres to the specific requirements for its intended use.
Slip Resistance: Materials must provide sufficient traction to prevent slipping, especially in wet conditions. Choose non-slip finishes to enhance safety for all users.
Width and Stability: Kerb ramps must have a minimum width of 1 metre to accommodate wheelchairs safely. They should also support the necessary load capacity for mobility aids.
Additional Requirements

The maximum rise for a kerb ramp is 190 mm.
The maximum length of a kerb ramp is 1520 mm.
Ensure appropriate landings and transitions for smooth access.

"Professional stamping compliant approval on documents, emphasising accuracy and reliability in documentation processes."

Temporary kerb ramps often don’t meet these strict requirements, but permanent solutions installed on public pathways must adhere to these standards to ensure inclusivity and safety.

The image shows a person holding a tablet with one hand while pointing at the screen with the other. The screen displays a document or webpage related to design standards, specifically titled "AS 1428.1:2009 Design for Access and Mobility – General Requirements for Access – New Building Work – Western Australia". The content is formatted in a structured layout with headings, sections, and subsections, likely outlining accessibility requirements for building design. The person is wearing a white shirt, and the background is neutral, placing focus on the tablet and its content. This setup suggests a professional or instructional context, possibly related to building compliance or accessibility planning.

What Is a Council and Why Does It Matter?

In Australia, a local council is the governing body responsible for managing local areas, including roads, footpaths, parks, and community facilities. Councils are tasked with ensuring public safety, maintaining infrastructure, and enforcing regulations within their jurisdiction.

Key Responsibilities of Local Councils:

Infrastructure Management: Overseeing roads, footpaths, and drainage systems.
Public Safety: Ensuring installations like kerb ramps don’t create hazards for pedestrians or vehicles.
Accessibility Compliance: Enforcing standards like AS 1428 for wheelchair access in public spaces.

When installing a kerb ramp that extends onto public property, local councils play a crucial role in approving and monitoring compliance to maintain safety and accessibility standards.

The image shows a white car with its front tyre positioned on a driveway kerb ramp. The ramp appears to be a rubber or heavy-duty material designed to bridge the gap between the street level and the driveway, allowing for smoother vehicle access. It is set on a sloping kerb near a residential area with greenery, a red fence, and a concrete driveway visible in the background. The ramp enhances accessibility by reducing the impact on the vehicle's suspension when transitioning from the road to the driveway.

Kerb Ramps on Private Driveways

If you’re installing a kerb ramp entirely within the boundary of your private property, council approval is generally not required. However:

Homeowners: You can install kerb ramps freely but should ensure they’re a good fit for your driveway type.
Renters: It’s recommended to check with your landlord before making modifications.

Key Consideration:

Even for private driveways, choose ramps with proper drainage and a snug fit to avoid safety issues or complaints.

"Set of black modular rubber kerb ramps with grooved surface design, installed over a driveway edge for smooth vehicle access."

Kerb Ramps on Public Pathways

Installing kerb ramps on public pathways or roads introduces more considerations. Local councils typically oversee these spaces to ensure safety, accessibility, and infrastructure integrity.

When Is Council Approval Needed?

Public Pathways: Approval is required when a kerb ramp extends onto footpaths, nature strips, or any publicly managed area.
Permanent Installations: Fixing a ramp to the ground, even partially, may require council or road authority consent.
Shared Spaces: If your installation impacts pedestrian movement or safety, approval is essential.

How to Check Council Regulations

The rules for kerb ramps vary by location, so it’s important to confirm local requirements. Here’s how:

1. Research Your Local Council’s Guidelines

Search online for your council’s website to find regulations related to kerb ramps and accessibility modifications.

The simplest way to determine your local council is to go to the Australian Government's local council directory. Look for your governing council under State and Territory Government Directories section.
This ensures you're looking at the correct regulations and reaching out to the right authority.

Once you've identified your local council, visit its official website. Look for sections like "Planning and Development," "Accessibility," or "Infrastructure and Maintenance."
Search for keywords like "kerb ramps," "accessibility modifications," or "drainage requirements."

2. Contact the Council Directly

If you can't find the information online, use the council's contact details to reach out by phone or email.
Explain your project or concern, and ask for guidance on kerb ramp installation, including drainage and safety requirements.
If required, request documentation or permit application forms.

3. Determine the Jurisdiction

Smaller residential streets are often managed by local councils.
Larger arterial roads may fall under state or regional road authorities, requiring a different approval process.

The image shows a man in a professional setting, holding a tablet while adjusting his glasses. He appears to be focused, possibly reviewing or analysing information on the device. He is dressed in a light-coloured button-down shirt, and the background features modern office elements such as hanging lights and a contemporary design with geometric patterns on the walls. The setting suggests a workplace environment or a business setting.

Tips for Gaining Council Approval

Getting council approval doesn’t have to be a hassle if you follow these best practices:

1. Ensure Proper Drainage

Use ramps with built-in drainage channels, such as the Heeve Solid Rubber Kerb Ramp, to maintain water flow and prevent pooling.

2. Select the Right Ramp for Your Kerb Type

Match your ramp to the specific kerb design to avoid gaps or misalignment.
Examples:

Rolled-edge driveways: Barrier Group Rubber Kerb Ramp
Layback driveways: Heeve Solid Rubber Ramp

The image shows a long kerb ramp installed at the edge of a driveway, designed to bridge the gap between the road and the driveway entrance. The ramp is black with prominent yellow stripes, enhancing visibility and safety. It appears to be constructed from durable material such as rubber or heavy-duty plastic. The driveway features red brick paving, and the surrounding area includes neatly maintained grass and a modern fence in the background. This ramp is likely intended to facilitate smoother vehicle access to the driveway while protecting tyres and reducing wear on vehicles.

3. Avoid Tripping Hazards

Choose ramps with reflective strips or rounded edges to improve visibility and safety.
Ensure the ramp fits snugly to the kerb without protrusions.

4. Keep It Portable

Opt for portable ramps instead of permanent fixtures to reduce the likelihood of requiring approval.

5. Communicate with Neighbours

Inform neighbours about your plans, especially if the ramp may affect shared spaces or visibility.

What Happens If You Don’t Follow Regulations?

Failing to adhere to council requirements can result in:

Fines or Penalties: Councils may impose fines for non-compliance.
Removal Orders: Non-compliant ramps may need to be removed at your expense.
Safety Risks: Improper installations can pose hazards to pedestrians and vehicles.

To avoid these outcomes, always check local guidelines before installing your ramp.

Still Have Questions?

For specific advice about kerb ramps in your area, consult your local council or road authority. Their guidance will help you understand what’s required and how to proceed.

Ready to Find the Right Kerb Ramp?

At Ramp Champ, we offer a wide range of kerb ramps designed to meet various needs while prioritising safety and compliance. Browse our collection or reach out to our team for personalised recommendations.

Conclusion

Installing a kerb ramp is a great way to improve accessibility and protect your vehicle, but understanding and complying with council regulations is key to a hassle-free process. Whether you’re modifying a private driveway or extending onto public property, following these guidelines will ensure your kerb ramp is safe, compliant, and effective.

Explore our Kerb Ramp Collection today to find the perfect solution for your needs.