The amendment helps protect and promote the important tree canopy across Glen Eira because once trees are removed, they are very difficult to replace.

The Canopy Tree Protection Local Law is now titled the Glen Eira Canopy Tree Protection Local Law (Local Law).

Under it, a free permit from Council is required to remove or significantly prune a tree over a certain size on private property, or for works within a tree protection zone.

Importantly, you are still able to undertake minor pruning of a tree protected under the Local Law once a year, without a permit, providing that no more than 10 per cent of the canopy is removed. A permit is also not required to remove or prune these protected trees to make an immediate hazard safe, such as a large branch that has broken after storm.

The Local Law is also consistent with other Laws across Victoria. Local governments across Melbourne, including several that border Glen Eira, maintain and protect canopy tree cover successfully with their own similar local laws.

The amendments to the Local Law will also see amendments to the Canopy Protection Local Law Guidelines and Canopy Protection Policy.

What we heard from the community

Community feedback from more than 300 residents throughout the six-week engagement process helped shaped Council’s decision to endorse the amendment.

Feedback from the community highlighted why protecting canopy cover is so important.

You told us that trees and canopy cover are an important part of life in Glen Eira and contribute to overall community health and wellbeing, including mental and respiratory health. They also deliver environmental benefits such as removing air pollution and creating important shade, and contribute to local biodiversity and support animals, birds and insects.

We also know that preventing further canopy loss is important for the future of Glen Eira and contributes to street amenity and neighbourhood character, which is important to those that call Glen Eira home.

Respondents shared concerns about the potential barriers the permitting system could cause, including possible safety concerns, tree neglect and property damage, and fears about needing to pay for fees or the permitting process being inconvenient.

In response to this feedback, we’ve made the permit free, and the permitting process is a simple online form.

For more information about the Local Law, Policy and Guidelines and to apply for a permit, visit Canopy Tree Protection page.

For more information about the Council meeting, visit Council meetings and agendas page.

For more information about the community engagement, visit www.haveyoursaygleneira.com.au/canopy-tree-protection-local-law