Gardening act that could become illegal

An Aussie council is going to great lengths to preserve its tree canopy which could see residents fined for pruning mature trees.

The Town of Bassendean in Perth’s east hopes to mandate that its residents seek council approval for any work or development that impacted trees of a certain size on private property.

The town has also proposed a minimum tree requirement for residential developments that would require residents to plant at least two of trees 2m in height on blocks of 350 sqm or more.

Anyone who wanted to remove a tree because it blocked their view, or they did not like it, or the tree shed bark or leaves or because they were installing a swimming pool would have their request rejected.

By introducing the measures, the town hopes to mitigate the impacts of urban heat, reduce air pollution, improve groundwater quality and provide habitat for wildlife.

Town of Bassendean mayor Kathryn Hamilton said it was about balancing development with environmental sustainability.

“The revised Local Planning Policy 13 underscores the Council’s commitment to reflecting the community’s desire to preserve Bassendean’s green, natural character,” she said.

The proposal was initially supported by the council in February but was knocked back by the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage.

The department had exempted tree removals from requiring development approval unless they were listed on the Significant Tree Register.

In April, the Minister for Planning removed the exemption, which enabled the town to pursue its proposal.

If council adopts the revised policy, it would become an offence for residents to damage a tree without approval from the town, which could result in residents being fined.

The council is not alone, other local governments around Perth are also looking at introducing similar measures to protect trees on private property.

The City of South Perth, Nedlands and Vincent are all looking at ways they can protect green canopies in their neighbourhoods.