FAQ
Why do we need this policy?
The fundamental intent of the policy is to increase tree density and canopy cover to benefit residents and the Towns urban ecosystem.
The Town of Victoria Park has one of the lowest tree canopy covers within the Perth Metropolitan Region, covering approximately 10% of Town’s area of jurisdiction.
The tree planting and retention policy is a supported action outlined within the adopted Urban Forest Strategy and aligns with our goal of increasing vegetation and tree canopy coverage to 20%.
Planting in reserves and public spaces form only part of the solution for the Town to reach it's goal of 20% tree canopy cover. Planting on private land is also integral to reach this goal.
What are the current local and state planning requirements?
Planting in reserves and public spaces form only part of the solution for the Town to reach it's goal of 20% tree canopy cover. Planting on private land is also integral to reach this goal.
Recent changes to State Planning Policy (Design WA) requires planting for apartments but these developments are not as common as the development of new single houses and grouped dwelling developments.
There is only limited instances where the Town currently requires new development to plant tree's. This is typically for new commercial development where trees are required to be planted at a rate of 1 tree for every 4 car bays.
The Town's current statutory requirements do not capture the redevelopment of smaller residential blocks for new single houses or grouped dwellings which is the most common form of development.
Will this mean the Council decides what trees I can and can’t cut down on my property?
No, this is not a local law. The proposed policy would only apply to development applications and incentivises the retention of existing trees rather than mandating their retention.
What trees would be protected?
The Town will encourage land owners to retain existing mature trees on site however council will require new developments to demonstrate alternative design solutions if a street tree (located on council verge) is proposed to be removed.
What development applications would the policy affect?
Residential: Non-compliant single houses, grouped dwellings, non-compliant additions and/or alterations to existing single houses or grouped dwellings.
Commercial/industrial: non-residential development which increases the existing net floor area and has a value exceeding $200,000.
Who is the final decision maker?
Typically, the Town is the final decision maker and will be responsible for exercising the provisions of the proposed policy.
In instances where the Town is not the decision maker, recommendations will be made that align with the objectives and provisions of the policy.