Check before you prune or remove trees in public areas

Published on 19 July 2018

Sunraysia residents are reminded to check with Council before either removing or pruning trees that could be on Council land, including nature strips.

There has been a concerning increase in major tree pruning, tree removal, and even poisoning of large, historic trees on Council land, which aside from being illegal, poses a number of problems, particularly in residential streets.

Councillor for Environment and Farming Sustainability Anthony Cirillo said in the case of subdivisions, trees planted on nature strips are carefully planned and designed to provide a consistent aesthetic value and amenity to residential streets.

“By major tree lopping or removing trees, residents are impacting the amenity and aesthetic value of their street, which aside from potentially ruining the look of their area, may not be in keeping with what their neighbours or other residents want,” Cr Cirillo said.

“It’s also wasting rate payers’ money, as trees planted on nature strips represent a significant investment by Council, sometimes up to three years when you take into account propagation, nurturing, planting and watering.

“We understand that in some cases, residents may not be aware trees on their nature strips or in front of their properties are owned by Council, or that they’re not permitted to work on them, in which case a quick call to our Customer Service staff can provide clarification, as well as avoiding any penalties.”

Cr Cirillo said it was equally concerning to hear reports of large, historic trees, in some cases more than 80 years old, being poisoned.

“In addition to destroying a piece of our region’s history, these incidents could pose a safety risk to passers-by due to the potential for large limbs and branches falling from dead or dying trees,” he said.

“And in the case of large-scale pruning, improper tree-lopping practices can permanently damage or possibly kill large trees.”

Cr Cirillo said another concerning trend in recent months has been vandalism to trees in public areas, which not only spoil the amenity of public spaces but represent a significant cost to ratepayers to replace.

“In the most recent example this month, 17 trees in one particular area were snapped or broken, which is disappointing for the community as well as our staff who planted and maintained them.”

If people notice similar acts of vandalism, they’re encouraged to report it to Council, who will either investigate further or report incidents to police.

If residents wish to prune or remove trees in front of their properties and are unsure if the tree is on public land, they’re advised to check with Council before doing so to avoid penalties, including fines.

Media enquiries 
Ben Piscioneri
p) (03) 5018 8689 
e) ben.piscioneri@mildura.vic.gov.au