We regularly inspect and maintain trees in public areas, such as parks,
reserves, nature strips and streets.
Our tree inspection program
All City-owned trees are inspected regularly according to a schedule. As part of this program, we often prune branches to improve tree health, get the best shape and minimise risks to nearby property.
| Tree type |
How often we inspect |
| Street and park trees |
Once every three years |
| Trees near powerlines |
Annually as part of the Electric Line Clearance Plan |
| Rural roads |
Annually (prior to the declared fire season) |
However, despite our best efforts, sometimes trees need attention between inspections – for example, due to weather-related damage.
If you believe a street or park tree is unsafe or is causing damage to nearby property, such as buildings or roads, contact us immediately so we can send out a qualified arborist to determine the best course of action.
Never prune the tree directly as you could be fined.
Requesting a tree inspection
If you contact us to request a street or park tree inspection, we will ask you some questions to assess your reason for wanting a tree inspection.
While
safety of people and property is extremely important to us, please be aware that we will not prune a tree if your request is due to one of the following:
- a tree is obstructing your view
- your solar panels do not have sufficient access to the sun
- wildlife living in the trees are creating waste or noise.
To find out more, visit our request a tree inspection page.
Private property trees near powerlines
While we are responsible for pruning street or park trees near powerlines, you should contact Powercor to report nearby trees on private property.
Reporting illegal pruning of a street or park tree
According to our Neighbourhood Amenity Local Law, it is an offence to prune a street or park tree without permission and fines can be applied.
If you witness a neighbour pruning a
street tree, please contact us to report it.
Overhanging trees
Overhanging foliage or branches from private properties can be a problem for anyone using our footpaths, nature strips, roads and laneways.
When we receive a complaint about trees and shrubs that encroach from private property we inspect the property.
We will send a Notice of Compliance to the property owners if there is a breach involving overhanging foliage.
Residents are responsible for trees and shrubs that encroach from their private land. If you require pruning works to be done you will need to engage a private company to complete the work.
Tree pruning issues between neighbours
We do not get involved in issues of trees and shrubs overhanging other privately owned property.
If an agreement cannot be met between residents you may try: