Surf Coast locals will have more say on roads, footpaths and drainage under changes to the Special Charge Scheme Policy.

The council says under changes to its Special Charge Scheme Policy it will put a stop to projects if more than 40 per cent of affected homeowners object, and when the cost for homeowners would be more than two-thirds of the project.

Other changes include extending payment terms for contributions over $5000.

And a community-based reference panel will be established for projects that involve more than one-hundred properties.

Picture: Surf Coast Shire Council offices in Grossmans Rd Torquay