Council trees removal schedule and requests
Our approach to tree removal
Council is committed to protecting and retaining trees, with removal considered only as a last resort.
Trees are an important part of Hobsons Bay’s urban environment. They provide shade, improve local climate, support biodiversity and contribute to the character of our neighbourhoods.
In 2020, Hobsons Bay’s tree canopy cover was measured at 7.5%. A healthy urban forest typically requires at least 30% canopy cover to provide meaningful environmental and community benefits. Council’s Urban Forest Strategy sets a target of 30% canopy cover by 2040.
Protecting established trees is critical to achieving this target. Every tree is considered a valuable asset that supports the health and wellbeing of our community.
Tree shedding and seasonal impacts
Many trees naturally shed leaves, flowers, bark, fruit or seeds at different times of the year. While we understand this can sometimes be inconvenient, it is a normal part of a tree’s lifecycle and is not a reason for removal.
When trees may be removed
Council may remove a tree where it:
- is dead or in severe and irreversible decline
- poses an unacceptable risk to the community that cannot be managed through pruning or other maintenance
- is identified for removal as part of an approved asset renewal or infrastructure project.
All tree removal decisions are made in accordance with the Hobsons Bay City Council Tree Policy 2021.
When trees are not removed
Trees will not be removed for reasons including (but not limited to):
- personal preference
- perceived nuisance (such as leaf, flower or fruit drop)
- limbs extending over private property
- to improve or maintain views
- to create or maintain parking space
- allergies, unless supported by advice from a relevant medical specialist demonstrating significant impact and no reasonable alternative
- the presence of wildlife in the tree
Scheduled tree removals
The map below shows Council trees that are currently scheduled for removal.
In some cases, a tree may be identified during routine inspections as having a significant structural defect that requires urgent removal. When this occurs, works may be carried out within a short timeframe and may not appear on the map in advance.
Requesting a tree assessment
If you are concerned about a Council tree, you can request an arboricultural assessment.
Council will assess the tree in line with the principles set out in the Tree Policy to determine whether any works, including removal, are required.
You can lodge a request by:
Tree replacement
Where a tree is removed, Council is committed to planting replacement tree(s) as part of our annual street tree planting program (April to October).
Where space and site conditions allow, more than one tree may be planted to help maintain and improve canopy cover over time.
Contact us
If you have any questions about a scheduled removal, please contact our Arboriculture Team on 1300 179 944.
Private tree removal permits
For information regarding protection laws and required permits for removal of trees on private land, please visit our webpage for Tree protection laws and permits.