Controversy
As portrayed on the show, the gardeners' work is done without seeking consent from the owners of the land and is often completed through subterfuge and by defying trespass laws. Because of this, a finished Guerrilla Gardeners project was threatened with removal by Marrickville Council, while a project in Sutherland Shire was halted halfway through construction due to council interference, with the unfinished plantings later removed. The producers were also issued a fine from the council, which they challenged. Ten also accused Canterbury Council of preparing to destroy work featured in the series' first episode, though these claims were later found to be premature and incorrect.
As a counterpoint to their activities, Sutherland Shire asserted that their removal of a Guerrilla Gardeners project was due to factors such as the team's failure to take into account soil quality and the unauthorised installation of plants and decorations which may create a distraction for motorists. They also claimed that Guerrilla Gardeners failed to comply with traffic and workplace safety rules during construction. Producers of the show have stated that they will respect any council decisions regarding what becomes of their work.
Read more about this topic: Guerrilla Gardeners
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