Gardening is a beloved pastime for many Australians, offering a chance to cultivate beauty, enjoy the outdoors, and even provide a source of fresh produce. However, for green-thumbed residents in certain areas, a common gardening activity could soon land them in hot water if they're not careful.

In the Perth suburb of Bassendean, located in the city's northeast, a new proposal is stirring up the soil in the community. The local council is considering a policy that would require homeowners to obtain a permit before trimming or modifying large trees on their property. This move is part of an effort to increase the area's canopy coverage to an ambitious 30 percent, as part of a broader 'greening' initiative.


The Town of Bassendean council had previously attempted to introduce a requirement for development approval to remove mature trees on private land in February of this year. However, the WA Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage initially rejected this proposal, stating that only trees on the town’s significant tree register would need council approval. In a surprising turn of events, the department reversed its decision in April, allowing the council to propose once again that unauthorized tree removal or modification be considered an offence.


Under the newly proposed policy, any work or development that could impact trees exceeding eight meters in height or with a canopy at least six meters wide would need council approval, unless the trees are classified as weeds. The policy aims to ensure that 'a regulated tree must be retained in perpetuity and protected,' unless its removal is essential for safety, bushfire management, or if it's listed as an unwanted species. Maintenance pruning, which involves trimming less than 10 percent of the canopy and not removing limbs thicker than 10 centimeters, would not require approval.


The proposed policy also outlines that improving property views, excessive leaf drop, or simply disliking a tree are not valid reasons for cutting it down. Bassendean Mayor Kath Hamilton has expressed that the policy reflects the council's dedication to preserving the area's natural charm and balancing development with environmental sustainability.

Residents are being encouraged to share their thoughts on the matter, and the council is expected to provide further details on the next steps and potential fines for non-compliance.

This initiative in Bassendean is part of a larger trend across Australia, where state and local governments are setting canopy targets to combat the effects of climate change and urbanization. For instance, in New South Wales, the government has a goal to increase tree canopy cover in Greater Sydney to 40 percent, up from the current 22 percent.


The push for greener cities is commendable, but it also raises questions about individual property rights and the responsibilities of homeowners. As Australians, we value our lush landscapes and understand the importance of trees in urban environments for providing shade, improving air quality, and supporting biodiversity. Yet, the prospect of fines for what many consider routine yard maintenance has left some wondering where the line should be drawn between private property management and public environmental goals.

For our readers, particularly those with a green thumb, it's essential to stay informed about local regulations and participate in community discussions regarding such policies. If you're unsure about the rules in your area, it's always best to check with your local council before undertaking significant gardening or landscaping projects.
We'd love to hear from you, members of the Seniors Discount Club. Have you encountered similar regulations in your area? How do you balance your love of gardening with the need to preserve our urban canopy? Share your stories and thoughts in the comments below, and let's cultivate a conversation about the future of gardening in our communities.