THINKING ABOUT PRUNING OR REMOVING A TREE?

Tuesday, 3 November 2009

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council is reminding residents that strict conditions are in place about the pruning or removing of trees.

Recently there have been a number of complaints to Council about trees being removed illegally.

Council's Tree Management Officer, Lindsay Field said, "Trees are a major component of our society and play an important role in climate change, biodiversity and the urban landscape.

"Under Council's Local Environment Plan 2001 (Trees on Public Land Policy), trees on Council-managed land cannot be pruned or removed without written consent from Council.

"Illegal works can result in court action and fines up to $1.1million," Mr Field said.

"People should remember that controls are also in place for removing or pruning trees on private property under the Tree Preservation Order Policy.

"Where consent is required and not obtained, court action or penalty infringement notices of $1,500 per tree can be imposed," Mr Field said.

Information on Council's tree policies is available at www.pmhc.nsw.gov.au (see Council and Meetings)

Application forms can be downloaded from the Development & Environment - Application Forms webpage.

Information packs can also be picked up from the front counter of Council Offices in Port Macquarie, Wauchope and Laurieton.