Urban Tree Policy

The Urban Tree Policy was adopted by Council on the 23 May 2018.

The objectives of this policy are to:

• Promote and recognise the value of the urban forest as fundamental and intrinsic landscape elements amongst the community, developers and Council staff;

• Protect trees which contribute to the historical, social, and environmental value of the region;

• Maintain and increase the species, age diversity and canopy cover and function of the urban forest and streetscapes to moderate or reduce climate change and urban heat island effects;

• Improve local streetscapes by introducing trees appropriate to the local environment and urban services present;

• Determine the strategic direction and a balanced approach to tree management;

• Prioritise the systematic management, maintenance, and consistent protection of Council controlled trees;

• Mitigate property, infrastructure, and community risks in accordance with the provisions of Council’s Tree Risk Management Plan.