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Tree inspections and pruning

We regularly inspect and maintain trees in public areas, such as parks, reserves, nature strips and streets.

Overhanging foliage Tree inspections and pruning Tree planting Tree removal

Our tree inspection program

All City - owned trees are inspected regularly according to a schedule. As part of this program we often prune branches to improve tree health get the best shape and minimise risks to nearby property.

Tree typeHow often we inspect
Street and park treesOnce every three years
Trees near powerlinesAnnually as part of the Electric Line Clearance Plan
Rural roadsAnnually (prior to the declared fire season)

However despite our best efforts sometimes trees need attention between inspections – for example due to weather - related damage.

If you believe a street or park tree is unsafe or is causing damage to nearby property such as buildings or roads contact us immediately so we can send out a qualified arborist to determine the best course of action.

Never prune the tree directly as you could be fined.


Requesting a tree inspection

If you contact us to request a street or park tree inspection we will ask you some questions to assess your reason for wanting a tree inspection.

While safety of people and property is extremely important to us please be aware that we will not prune a tree if your request is due to one of the following:

  • a tree is obstructing your view
  • your solar panels do not have sufficient access to the sun
  • wildlife living in the trees are creating waste or noise.

To find out more visit our request a tree inspection page.


Private property trees near powerlines

While we are responsible for pruning street or park trees near powerlines you should contact Powercor to report nearby trees on private property.


Reporting illegal pruning of a street or park tree

According to our Neighbourhood Amenity Local Law it is an offence to prune a street or park tree without permission and fines can be applied.

If you witness a neighbour pruning a street tree please contact us to report it.


Overhanging trees

Overhanging foliage or branches from private properties can be a problem for anyone using our footpaths nature strips roads and laneways.

When we receive a complaint about trees and shrubs that encroach from private property we inspect the property.

We will send a Notice of Compliance to the property owners if there is a breach involving overhanging foliage.

Residents are responsible for trees and shrubs that encroach from their private land. If you require pruning works to be done you will need to engage a private company to complete the work.


Tree pruning issues between neighbours

We do not get involved in issues of trees and shrubs overhanging other privately owned property.

If an agreement cannot be met between residents you may try:

Common Questions

We will send you a brochure requesting that you do some pruning if there is overhanging foliage  from your property reported.  

If after you receive the brochure and you still have questions, please contact our Local Law Unit directly on 03 5272 5272 and we will assist you.

If you receive a letter requesting pruning of overhanging foliage from your property and you are unable to complete the work in time, please contact our Local Laws Unit on 03 5272 5272 to discuss pruning time frames.

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