Roadside memorials

Council understands how deeply distressing it is to lose a loved one in a road accident. For many families and friends, placing a roadside memorial can provide comfort and a meaningful way to remember someone special, while gently reminding others of the importance of road safety. 

Council aims to support families during this time by offering clear, caring guidance on how roadside memorials can be installed safely and respectfully on Council‑controlled roads. 

Our priority is the safety of all road users, as well as the safety of those installing and visiting memorials. 

Please note: This information applies to Council‑controlled local roads only. For memorials on State‑controlled roads, guidance is provided by the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) and can be found at www.tmr.qld.gov.au.

What is a roadside memorial?

A roadside memorial is a simple item placed near a road to honour the memory of a person who has died as a result of a road accident. 

A white cross is often used and is recommended, as it is clear, respectful and can be installed safely in line with Council guidelines. Other memorial types may be considered and are assessed on a case‑by‑case basis. 

A name, date and flowers may be included, provided the memorial remains safe and does not distract drivers. 

When visiting a memorial, families and friends are encouraged to: 

  • Park safely and well clear of traffic 

  • Take care when accessing the site 

Installing a memorial safely

To protect everyone’s safety, roadside memorials must: 

  • Not interfere with traffic, road operations or safety infrastructure 

  • Be installed within the following size limits:  

  • Height: up to 750 mm 

  • Width: up to 500 mm 

  • Depth: up to 400 mm below ground level 

For safety reasons, memorials cannot be placed in locations such as: 

  • Traffic islands and medians 

  • Roundabouts 

  • Areas that affect road signs, signals or visibility 

If you are unsure about a suitable location, Council staff are happy to help. Please contact Council on (07) 4776 4600 for advice.

 

How to apply

A formal permit is not required, however Council asks that families complete a short information form so support can be provided and safety considerations confirmed. 

The Roadside Memorial Fact Sheet and Application Form are available: 

  • From Council’s Customer Service Centre at 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham, or 

As downloads below 

If you would like help or have questions, please contact Council on (07) 4776 4600. 

Once completed, the form can be returned to Council in person, by email or by post. 

Council staff are available to assist and will take the time to explain the process and answer any questions. 

If a location is not suitable

If the requested location does not meet safety requirements, Council will work with families to identify an alternative location that is safe for both road users and visitors to the memorial.

Ongoing care and duration

Roadside memorials may remain in place indefinitely, as long as they: 

  • Are maintained by family or friends, and 

  • Do not become a safety concern over time 

 

Relocation or removal

In some circumstances, such as roadworks or safety risks, a memorial may need to be temporarily relocated or removed. 

When this occurs: 

  • Council will handle the memorial with care and respect 

  • Every reasonable effort will be made to contact affected families beforehand 

  • Where possible, the memorial will be returned once works are complete 

If a memorial becomes a road safety hazard, Council may need to relocate or remove it in a safe and respectful manner, with attempts made to notify those affected. 

Insurance

Families installing a roadside memorial are not required to arrange public liability or indemnity insurance.

 

Back to top