If your property is in a Residential Zone, you may need a planning permit to remove, destroy or lop a tree – even if the land isn’t affected by any overlays.
This requirement came into effect when Amendment VC289 was gazetted on Monday 15 September. It is covered in Clause 52.37 (Canopy trees) of the Victoria Planning Provisions (VPP) and all planning schemes.
The amendment is required to implement Action 12 of Plan for Victoria to protect and enhance canopy trees.
When do you need a planning permit?
You need a planning permit to remove, destroy or lop a canopy tree anywhere on the lot in a:
- Mixed Use Zone
- Residential Growth Zone
- General Residential Zone
- Neighbourhood Residential Zone
- Housing Choice and Transport Zone.
For these zones, you need a planning permit if either of the following apply:
- the land is vacant
- the land is vacant and a new single dwelling is proposed (and only a building permit is required).
You do not need a planning permit if the table of exemptions in Clause 52.37-8 specifically states this.
Definitions
Canopy tree
A tree is defined as a canopy tree if it meets all of the following measurements:
- a height of more than 5 metres above ground level
- a trunk circumference of more than 0.5 metres, measured at 1.4 metres above ground level
- a canopy diameter of at least 4 metres.
Boundary canopy tree
A tree is defined as a boundary canopy tree if it meets either of the following measurements:
- within 6 metres of the narrowest street frontage of a lot
- within 4.5 metres of the rear boundary of a lot.
What if my tree is not a canopy tree?
If a tree is not classified as a canopy tree, you may still need a Tree Works Permit to remove, destroy, lop, or do works in the vicinity of significant trees on your property. This comes under Stonnington General Local Law 2018 (No.1).
Visit our Tree Works Permit page if you need help identifying significant trees or to apply for a permit.