Managing trees

Trees, plants and shrubs are an important part of Mitchell Shires landscape.

They provide shade and shelter for people and wildlife, reduce the effects of greenhouse gases and also provide benefits to health and wellbeing and the economy, as well as social and community benefits.

To report an immediate hazard phone Council on 03 5734 6200 (all hours).

Find out what defines a tree as hazardous.

If you want to remove vegetation, including trees, shrubs and grasses, you may need a permit from Council.

If you are unsure of the restrictions on your property or whether you need a permit, contact our Statutory Planning Department on 03 5734 6200.

Removing Native Vegetation

In Victoria, native vegetation removal is regulated through the state and local planning system.

Penalties apply for removing native vegetation without a permit.

Make sure you know if a permit is needed before you start removing any native vegetation.

Non-native Vegetation

Some non-native trees may also be protected by planning scheme controls such as a heritage overlay.

In order to determine whether or not planning controls apply to your property, see Mitchell Shire Planning Scheme.

Applying for a Permit

If a tree is required to be removed via a planning permit application, the following documents are required:

• completed Application for a Planning Permit (download below)
• recent copy of the land title — must be dated within 3 months from the date of submission of the application
• a site plan showing all site details, including the location of the tree(s) to be removed
• detailed photos of the tree
• an arborist report
• any other documentation may be required depending on the complexity of the application

To apply:

• take your completed documents to a Customer and Library Service Centre
• pay the relevant fees

Talk to your neighbours first if you are concerned about a tree on their property.

You have the right to prune an overhanging tree to the boundary fence line. You do not have the right to enter their property without permission.

More information on your rights and responsibilities is available from the Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria website or the Victoria Law Foundation - Tree Laws.

Maintenance by Council

Council has a maintenance program for street trees, which includes mulching, weed control, watering and a pruning schedule.

Maintenance by Residents

Residents are not permitted to plant trees and shrubs within the nature strip or other sites within the road reserve without Council approval. Plantings in these areas, without approval, may be removed by Council without compensation to the resident.

Residents can help maintain nature strips by:

• providing additional water in warmer periods
• maintaining grass at base of tree
• keeping grass clippings from base of tree
• avoid damaging base of tree when trimming grass
• all pruning must be completed by our qualified Council staff and contractors

Street trees located within the Mitchell Shire fall into 2 categories:

Council's Parks and Gardens Department and contractors actively undertake the management and maintenance of all municipality trees, according to our Street and Park Tree Policy and relevant Australian standards. The Mitchell Shire Council Street and Park Tree Policy provides a framework for the efficient and effective management of Councils amenity trees.

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