Amanda Blair has opted for high-quality synthetic turf at her residence, a decision that reduces maintenance and benefits her partner’s son’s allergies.

“At our previous home, mowing would trigger his allergies due to the smell and grass clippings,” Blair explained.

While the synthetic grass covers both her front and back yards, it’s the strip along the footpath that’s drawn the ire of her local council.

The Gold Coast City Council has issued a letter instructing her to remove the artificial grass or face potential consequences.

“They’ve told us to replace it with real grass, and then they’ll conduct an inspection,” Blair noted.

While fake grass on private property is widely allowed, council laws vary on footpath rules.

Ipswich City Council, just like the Gold Coast, doesn’t allow it. Brisbane, Logan, the City of Moreton Bay and Redland councils require residents to apply for permission.

Pedestrian safety is a big consideration when councils weigh up artificial turf.

Other factors can include the impact on neighbours and whether water can drain freely through it.

Gold Coast City Council fears turf could become a trip hazard and attract significant heat.

If residents don’t comply they’ll be fined $834 and council will remove the turf at the residents’ expense.

Blair’s local councillor Nick Marshall is sympathetic.

“This is a really good example of where the resident has a really good reason for why they’re doing what they’re doing,” Marshall said.

“They keep it really well maintained so I hope we can get a good outcome.”