World News Council could fine its own residents for pruning mature trees on private property Blog

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An Australian community is making major efforts to protect tree canopies, which could result in residents being fined for pruning mature trees.

The town of Bassendean in the east of Perth wants to require its residents to obtain council approval for any work or construction projects that impact trees of a certain size on private property.

The city has also proposed a minimum tree requirement for residential developments that would require residents to plant at least two 2-meter-tall trees on lots of 350 square meters or more.

An Australian local council is making a major effort to protect its tree canopy and is proposing fines for residents who prune mature trees. Town of Bassendean
Camera iconAn Australian local council is making a major effort to protect its tree canopy and is proposing fines for residents who prune mature trees. Town of Bassendean Credit: Delivered

Anyone who wanted to have a tree removed because it blocked the view, because they didn't like it, because it was losing bark or leaves, or because they wanted to build a swimming pool, had their application rejected.

By introducing these measures, the city hopes to mitigate the effects of heat in the city, reduce air pollution, improve groundwater quality and create habitat for wildlife.

Mayor of the City of Bassendean Kathryn Hamilton. Delivered
Camera iconMayor of the City of Bassendean Kathryn Hamilton. Delivered Credit: Delivered

Kathryn Hamilton, mayor of the town of Bassendean, said it was about balancing development and environmental sustainability.

“The revised Local Planning Policy 13 underlines the council’s commitment to meeting the community’s desire to preserve the green, natural character of Bassendean,” she said.

The proposal was initially supported by the council in February, but was rejected by the Department of Planning, Land and Heritage.

The authority had exempted the felling of trees from the requirement for building permits, provided that the trees were not listed in the register of significant trees.

If the proposed regulation is adopted, it will mean that residents who want to have a tree removed because it blocks their view, they don't like it, the tree is losing bark or leaves, or because they want to build a swimming pool will have their application rejected. Town of Bassendean
Camera iconIf the proposed regulation is adopted, it will mean that residents who want to have a tree removed because it blocks their view, they don't like it, the tree is losing bark or leaves, or because they want to build a swimming pool will have their application rejected. Town of Bassendean Credit: Delivered

In April, the Minister of Planning lifted the exemption, allowing the city to continue pursuing its proposal.

If the City Council adopts the revised policy, it would be a crime for residents to damage a tree without city permission, which could result in residents being fined.

The council is not alone; other local authorities around Perth are also considering introducing similar measures to protect trees on private land.

The cities of South Perth, Nedlands and Vincent are looking for ways to protect the green tree canopies in their neighbourhoods.

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