Significant Tree Register

On 12 March 2025, the City endorsed Local Planning Policy 2.26: Tree Retention. This policy protects large trees by requiring a development application to be approved prior to any “tree-damaging activity” on Industrial land, Residential land coded R30 and below, and Development Areas. “Tree-damaging activity” includes killing or other works that would damage the health of the tree, but excludes maintenance pruning. More information can be found through the link above or by speaking with a Planning Officer at 1300 MY FREO.

The Significant Tree Register has been paused while the City assesses this new policy, on the basis that most trees in the City now have protection. Any nominations for a significant tree will be kept on file and applicants will be contacted when a decision on the policy has been reached. It is anticipated that the Tree Retention policy and the Significant Tree Register will be reviewed in early 2026.

Trees that are listed on the City’s Significant Tree Register are recognised for their contribution to the local environment and are protected under the City’s Local Planning Scheme. Only trees and vegetation located on private property are eligible for listing on the register. Property owners are able to self-nominate a tree or vegetation area within their property for inclusion on the register.

A local planning policy for significant trees has been prepared that contains the current register of significant trees and defines how nominations for the register are assessed by the City. The policy – known as Local Planning Policy 2.23 – also outlines how the City will consider requests for removal of trees from the register. Refer to the Planning page to download a copy of LPP 2.23.

Nominations for the Register

The annual assessment and reporting period for nominations is generally undertaken between February and April each year. Any nominations received outside of this time will be held on file until the next available reporting period.

Key points for nominations:

• The tree or vegetation area must be nominated, or formally supported, by the owner of the land on which it is located.
• The tree must be a healthy specimen with ongoing viability. Viability considers factors such as proximity to buildings and infrastructure, and development potential.
• Initial inclusion on the register would require formal nomination, an assessment by the City, public consultation and an annual Council decision.
• Assessment may include the commission of an independent arboricultural report.
• The tree or vegetation area must demonstrate significance based on the criteria of:
  1. botanic / horticultural value (e.g. rare or endangered species);
  2. visual / aesthetic / landmark value;
  3. heritage value; and
  4. ecological value not otherwise protected through environmental legislation.

Please download and submit the nomination form to commence the application process.