Tree maintenance

Our Parks and Gardens team manage and prioritise tree works and maintenance, and clean up any tree hazards after storm events.

Trees, like all living things grow, age and eventually die. The Parks and Gardens teams manage and monitor public trees through their life cycle and remove and replace them when appropriate.

Whilst tree removal is the last resort management option, public safety always takes priority.

Urban tree removal will not be considered in the following instances:

• If the tree is healthy and structurally sound
• If there is a safe and practical means for tree retention
• For solar access
• For unjustified property or infrastructure damage claims
• To reduce leaf, fruit and debris litter
• If the tree provides an important Biodiversity function such as high conversation road reserves
• For personal aesthetic preference.

Urban tree removal may be considered under the following circumstances:

• All hazardous trees will be removed as soon as practicable
• Trees that are unviable, and have a high probability of failure and are structurally unsound
• Trees that are dead, dying or are in severe decline
• A tree that has a defect that cannot be rectified without removal
• Trees proven to be causing damage to infrastructure
• As part of a streetscape upgrade or capital works program.

Parks and Garden staff replace trees removed from nature strips and parks to enhance the character of our urban areas and townships.

Each year in early to mid autumn staff plant up to 150 trees across all areas.

Residents are able to request a street tree at any time, however planting is only done during the autumn period to minimise transplanting shock on young trees.

Tree selection is made by Council staff, however, residents can advise their preferences which will be taken into consideration during the inspection period. Each property in the residential areas can request a maximum of two trees although consideration maybe given to corner blocks for additional trees. 

Tree species selection is based on existing trees in the streetscapes, overhead power lines and underground infrastructure, a list of preferred tree species has been developed to assist selections.

Once planted Council encourages the resident to water the tree, although parks and gardens staff will monitor and maintain the tree in its first year.

Residents cannot plant trees on public land without prior consent from Council.

Powerline clearance is the responsibility of the local energy company - Essential Energy - and all enquiries should be directed to them.

Phone 13 23 91.