The City of Melville is inviting the community to have their say on the City’s draft Local Planning Policy related to trees on private land.
The draft Local Planning Policy 1.24 - Regulated Trees on Private Land (Policy), was informed by feedback received in 2024, when more than 900 people shared their views on retaining trees on private land.
The proposed draft planning policy seeks to address declining tree canopy, particularly on private land, and follows several local governments that have introduced or are developing policies to help retain trees on private property.
The City’s draft policy is intended to balance tree retention with appropriate development and the practical use of private property. It also proposes replacement planting when the removal of a regulated tree is approved.
If adopted, the draft policy may affect what landowners can do with some medium and large trees on their property.
The draft planning policy outlines when approval may be required to remove or significantly damage a regulated tree, when exemptions may apply and when replacement planting may be required.
The draft policy is proposed to apply to all zoned land within Local Planning Scheme No. 6, including commercial, business and other non-residential properties.
The deadline for submissions is Saturday, 31 October 2026.
For more information, visit melvilletalks.com.au/trees
Attribute the following comments to City of Melville Mayor Katy Mair:
“The City of Melville recognises that trees contribute to a clean, green and sustainable Melville for current and future generations to enjoy.
“We’ve taken what we heard from the community to help shape this draft policy for managing trees on private land.
“It’s important to note that this draft policy is not final and we want to hear from our community.
“If you’re interested in the future of trees in Melville, I encourage you to have your say by going online to Melville Talks.”