In what is a historic first for the City of Burnside, an individual has been prosecuted for the illegal removal of a street tree. In April 2021, a mature seven-year-old Golden Rain tree (Koelreuteria paniculata) was cut down on Fort Avenue, Kensington Gardens. The removal of this street tree was witnessed by a resident who, after discovering the removal had not been approved by Council, took photographs and notified the City of Burnside of the incident. With sufficient evidence to prosecute, the matter was taken to Adelaide Magistrates Court with the defendant recently found guilty of the offence. The defendant was issued with a fine of $500, with an additional order to pay Council’s court costs of $5,708 and a $262 payment of a Victims of Crime levy.
CEO Chris Cowley said he was pleased with the final outcome and thanked the resident for their support in gathering evidence.
‘We need everyone to know that this illegal behaviour is not acceptable in our community and that anyone can help by giving information to Council,’ Mr Cowley said. ‘I hope this example highlights the seriousness of the issue and the commitment from Council to take strong action to safeguard the urban forest.’
It is an offence to prune, alter or remove a street or verge tree, and since this incident a new Golden Rain tree has been planted in the place of the original tree on Fort Avenue.
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