Ballina Shire Council has been fined $2,500 after misusing pesticide near a Lennox Head waterway and failing to keep required records.
An investigation by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) was launched following a community report about pesticide use at a Hutley Drive reserve in January 2026.
Inquiries found Council had applied Metsulfuron-Methyl WG Herbicide to weeds growing in or over water in a culvert, contrary to label instructions.
Council also failed to record the pesticide application at Kell Mather Drive, as required under NSW pesticide laws.
NSW EPA Field Operations Director Greg Sheehy thanked the community member for making the report.
"This is a good example of residents speaking up when something doesn't look right and helping us take action on suspected environmental breaches," Mr Sheehy said.
"Pesticide labels contain important safety directions to protect waterways, wildlife and the community.
"Applying pesticides around waterways can increase the risk of chemicals harming plants and wildlife as well as human health.
"Councils carry out important weed management work in public spaces and must ensure staff are properly trained and understand their responsibilities."
The EPA issued the council with $1,500 and $1,000 penalty notices.
The public is encouraged to report suspected pesticide misuse to the EPA's Environment Line at
