The term Native vegetation refers to plants that are indigenous to Victoria and includes trees, shrubs, herbs and grasses. Native vegetation provides habitat for plants and animals and delivers a range of ecosystem services that we all rely on.
Native vegetation is protected in Victoria, and the mechanism for protection is found in section 52.17 of the Murrindindi Planning Scheme. Unauthorised clearance of native vegetation is illegal and offenders may be prosecuted under the Planning and Environment Act 1987.
If you wish to remove native vegetation on your property (including lopping, trimming or pruning of standing trees), you may need to apply for a permit through Council. There are some exemptions and a call to a Council Planning Officer can determine if an exemption applies to you.
Be aware that what your neighbour can do on their property may be very different to what is permitted on your property. Before removing, destroying or lopping native vegetation, you should contact Council to discuss your needs on (03) 5772 0333.
You can also find more information about the rules regarding native vegetation in Victoria at Native vegetation removal regulations.
If your property/dwelling falls within a Bushfire Management Overlay, the planning provisions allow for a range of approved measures for bushfire protection. This includes allowances for creating defendable space (i.e. removal of vegetation under specified clearance rules).
Bushfire protection can also be achieved through other means such as the way you site and construct your dwelling, the way adjoining land is managed and the level of access to water supply and roads.
Visit the Department of Transport and Planning to find out if your property is in a Bushfire Management Overlay.
Think before you remove! If you are not sure about what your legal requirements are, please contact Council on (03) 5772 0333.
For more information on preparing for fire season, visit How can residents prepare for fire.
Further information
When managing vegetation on your property, keep the following things in mind
- choose an area that is manageable
- vegetation management isn’t just about cutting grass or pruning trees and shrubs - it also may include weed control, erosion works and fencing
- indigenous plants are preferred as they have the best chance of surviving the climatic and soil conditions of the Shire - plant shrubs as well as trees and plan for native grasses if you can as they generally have a lower fuel load than exotic grasses and provide higher biodiversity value
- seek local advice - there are a number of local nurseries in the region that can provide information on which species grow well in different situations
If you believe that trees or vegetation need better management on Council owned land, please complete and submit a customer request form or contact Council on (03) 5772 0333.