If an emergency arises after hours concerning a Council tree please refer to our after hours emergency service page.
Property owners are responsible for ensuring trees and shrubs on their land do not obstruct footpaths, roads, laneways or other public spaces.
Where Council identifies vegetation encroaching onto public land, the property owner may be issued with a Notice of Compliance requiring the obstruction to be removed.
Any required pruning of privately owned vegetation must be arranged by the property owner.
Council-owned trees are inspected on a regular schedule to maintain their health, structure and safety. Pruning is undertaken where required to support tree health, maintain appropriate clearance and reduce risk to people and property.
| Tree Type | Inspection Frequency |
|---|---|
| Street and park trees | Every 3 years |
| Trees near powerlines | Annually, in accordance with the Electric Line Clearance Plan |
| Trees on rural roads | Annually, before the declared fire season |
While Council undertakes regular inspections, trees can occasionally require attention between scheduled inspections due to factors such as severe weather or storm damage.
If you believe a Council-owned street or park tree presents an immediate safety risk or is causing damage to public or private property, please contact Council so that a qualified arborist can assess the tree and determine any required action.
Residents must not prune, remove or interfere with Council-owned trees without prior authorisation. Unauthorised works may result in enforcement action.
When requesting an inspection, Council will assess the circumstances to determine whether an inspection or maintenance is warranted.
Tree pruning will generally not be undertaken where the request is solely based on:
- Obstruction of a view.
- Reduced sunlight to solar panels.
- Leaf, fruit, flower or bark litter.
- Wildlife activity, including noise or droppings.
Requests are assessed in accordance with Council's tree management policies and risk assessment procedures.
Council is responsible for managing Council-owned trees near powerlines. For trees located on private property, please contact Powercor directly.
Pruning or removing a Council-owned street or park tree without approval is an offence under Council's Neighbourhood Amenity Local Law and may result in penalties.
To report unauthorised pruning of a Council-owned tree, please contact Council
Council does not become involved in disputes relating to trees or shrubs located on private property.
Where neighbours cannot reach agreement, independent advice or mediation may be sought through the Law Handbook or the Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria.