Report before you fix

Have you already tried to report the problem?

If not, click here to learn how to report it.

Already reported and still no luck?

Click here to escalate the issue to your ward councillor.

Communities acting together can make things happen. Click here to discover how.

Still no success? The info below will help you fix it yourself.

DISCLAIMER: Check with your local authority on legal ways to fix problems yourself. Fixlocal cannot take responsibility for any problems that may arise in fixing it yourself.

Community-led sports field maintenance

In many places, especially where local governments don’t help much, looking after sports fields can become the community's job. Here are some easy steps your community can take to keep these spaces safe and usable.

Basic field maintenance

Keeping the grass short is important for safety and playing sports. If the municipality isn't mowing regularly, and you have reported with no luck, you can plan a community mowing day. People can bring their own lawnmowers, or everyone can chip in to rent one. Short grass reduces the risk of injuries and pests and helps keep the area safe. Also, fill any big holes or uneven spots with soil or sand to make the field smoother.

Fixing goalposts and nets

If goalposts or nets are broken, simple repairs can make a big difference. Make loose goalposts stronger with wood or metal supports. Fix nets with strong string or rope, or collect money to buy new ones if needed. Local businesses might give supplies in exchange for advertising.

Repainting field lines

You can repaint faded field lines easily. Use a tape measure and string to guide you, and paint from a hardware shop. Clear lines improve play quality and make sure the field meets sports standards.

Cleaning up litter and rubbish

A clean sports field is safer and more fun. Plan regular days to clean up and remove rubbish. Make sure rubbish bins are available and encourage their use. If bins are missing or broken, ask the municipality for new ones or use big containers for now.

Improving safety

Check the fields often for dangers like broken glass or sharp things and remove them right away. If fencing is damaged, use netting or wooden stakes as a temporary barrier. For evening activities, portable solar-powered lights can provide temporary lighting until municipal repairs are made.

Get your community involved

Is there a community-driven group or caring business in your area? A dedicated group of committed people can effectively solve local problems.

Think about starting or joining community groups like a street WhatsApp group, residents' association, or community policing forum (CPF) to get help and to stay informed and involved in local issues.

How to set up a community group

How to start a WhatsApp group

How to start a residents' association

How to set up a community policing forum

How to set up a neighbourhood watch

How to organise community action

How to use media to create pressure for change

Know your rights – how local government works

It’s important to understand how your local government works so that you can work with them to support what they are doing while your community continues to keep them accountable and deliver services on time. Remember you have a constitutional right to many of the services provided by local government, as well as to accountability and transparency, wherever you live and regardless of how much you earn. It is also where money collected from taxes and rates goes.