An Aussie homeowner has been fined $17,000 and ordered to pay the council’s legal fees after removing a tree from their property without seeking approval. The verdict has been described as a “significant milestone” as councils across the country grapple with the unauthorised tree removal.
Kath Hamilton, the Mayor of Bassendean, said authorities were made aware that the Perth resident removed the tree without approval, despite knowing permission was required.
The council pushed to prosecute the resident under its recently adopted tree retention and provision policy, and won.
“It sends a clear message that regulated trees must not be removed without approval,” Hamilton said.Â
“It’s not just about planting new trees — it’s about protecting the mature ones we already have. It takes years for new trees to grow tall enough to provide the same benefits. Every tree counts.”
The Aussie city is facing a declining tree canopy. Source: Getty
Council pushes to protect trees on private land
The Town of Bassendean introduced its new tree retention and provision policy last year in a bid to protect every stage of tree development, as well as ‘regulated trees’ on private property.
A ‘regulated tree’ is one that stands over eight metres tall, has a canopy wider than six metres and a trunk circumference of 1.5m or more, and is not listed as a weed species.
“The town is actively planting trees in parks, streets, and natural areas with support from local bush care groups, but to reach its goal of 30 per cent canopy cover by 2040, community involvement is essential.”
It’s the latest push against unauthorised tree removal by authorities, as the problem persists across the country.
Yahoo News has reported on countless incidents involving tree poisonings and vandalism, often in a bid to enhance ocean views from properties.
The majority of incidents are on council land, and the offences continue despite councils reminding offenders that they can cop hefty fines if caught.
Damaging or removing trees without authority is a serious offence across the country, with the NSW Land and Environment Court issuing on-the-spot fines of $3,000 if caught. However, the state can issue fines of up to $220,000 for individuals and $1.1 million for corporations. In Victoria, fines are slightly higher, starting at $3,800.
Illegal tree removal continues across the country as councils desperately try to tackle the issue. Source: Supplied
Councils across the country have cracked down hard on the behaviour, with many opting to erect large signs where the trees and plants once stood to ensure the vandals don’t secure the views they desired by killing the trees.
The Northern Beaches Council in Sydney told Yahoo News last week it was offering a $10,000 reward for any information about a recent tree vandalism that could help lead to a successful prosecution.
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