Trees are one of the things people love most about Bayside, but they can also create challenges. Whether it’s protecting a mature tree from a development, managing tree roots near infrastructure, or responding to community concerns, Council is often required to balance competing needs.
That’s why we’re reviewing the Street and Park Tree Management Policy and asking the community to help shape the final policy. This review aims to ensure the policy reflects current legislation and best practice while improving clarity and transparency around how decisions are made.
Across Bayside, we manage more than 70,000 public trees that provide shade on hot days, homes for wildlife, make our streets greener and help keep our neighbourhoods cool and green.
The draft policy continues to prioritise protecting and retaining public trees. Tree removal remains a last resort to be considered after reasonable alternatives have been explored.
Through this review, we’re seeking feedback on proposed changes relating to:
- Removing public trees to facilitate development
- Managing tree roots that may affect private property or infrastructure
We’d like to know whether the proposed changes are fair, easy to understand and strike the right balance between protecting public trees and responding to community needs.
Have your say before consultation closes on 4 October 2026.
