Cockburn has tightened up its tree removal policy to protect mature trees on private land
A local government in Perth’s south has banned the removal of trees, making it harder for residents to cut them down. It restricted tree removal by making it difficult for residents to cut down trees.
Cockburn Council’s new tree planning policy, which came into force on May 28, regulates when planning approval is required for any activity that “damages trees” on private property.
The WA Planning Commission and Planning Minister John Carey have deleted a clause in the city’s urban planning plan that protected only trees on the significant tree list.
The policy now applies to trees 8 meters or taller, excluding palm trees and pest species. It also includes trees that must be preserved or trees that must be planted to replace trees lost to subdivisions or developments.
Zoning approval will now be required for work such as tree removal in the canopy drip line area, significant branch cutting, activities that may damage roots, paving and paving.
Approval will not be required for routine pruning, removal of dead branches and work required to manage an immediate safety risk. Supporting evidence may need to be presented to justify exemption.
Cockburn mayor Logan Howlett said the policy responded to the community’s needs to protect and grow the city’s urban cover.
“Big trees make a huge difference to the lives of both people and animals, and after our community asked us to take action to protect them, we are doing so,” he said.
The draft policy will be made public for four months in 2025. The Council received 323 applications; Nearly three-quarters of responses supported new rules protecting mature trees on private property.
“Large, well-established trees are a defining feature of Cockburn neighborhoods. They provide shade, help cool our suburbs, support local wildlife and add to the look and feel of our streets,” Mr Howlett said.
“Importantly, day-to-day gardening activities such as routine pruning can continue as normal, and exemptions may apply for situations such as hazardous trees and bushfire management requirements.”
The policy is based on a model prepared by the Local Government Association of WA, but additional adjustments have been made to provide clarity for the Cockburn community.
