Victoria’s New Canopy Tree Law: What You Need to Know
Victoria is getting a greener future! From September 2025, a significant new state-wide legislation came into effect, aimed at preserving our precious established tree cover across Victoria. This proactive measure is designed to protect canopy trees, ensuring that our urban and regional landscapes continue to thrive with the environmental and aesthetic benefits that mature trees provide. At Treeman Melbourne, we’re dedicated to keeping you informed and ensuring seamless compliance with these important changes.
Defining a ‘Canopy Tree’ Under the New Legislation
So, what exactly constitutes a canopy tree under this new law? It’s crucial to understand these specifications, as they determine whether a permit is required for any work on your trees. According to Clause 52.37, a permit is now required to remove, destroy, or lop a canopy tree that meets all of the following criteria:
- 🌲 It has a height of more than 5 metres above ground level.
- 🌲 It boasts a trunk circumference of more than 0.5 metres, measured at 1.4 metres above ground level.
- 🌲 Its canopy diameter spans at least 4 metres.
If your tree ticks all these boxes, it’s considered a protected canopy tree, and any significant work will fall under the new permit regulations.
Where Do These Permit Requirements Apply?
While the legislation is state-wide, the permit requirement for canopy trees is specific to certain zones. A permit is only mandated in the following areas: Mixed Use Zone, Township Zone, Residential Growth Zone, General Residential Zone, Neighbourhood Residential Zone, and Housing Choice and Transport Zone. If your property is located within one of these zones and you have a tree matching the ‘canopy tree’ definition, professional advice is paramount before commencing any tree work.
Treeman Melbourne: Your Partner in Compliance and Due Diligence
Navigating new state legislation can feel complex, but that’s where Treeman Melbourne steps in. As leading experts in arboriculture with over 25 years of experience across Melbourne, we pride ourselves on our unwavering commitment to due diligence and compliance. Our team of highly qualified Arborists, including a Certificate 5 qualified specialist, stays abreast of all local council and state-wide regulations. When we conduct our on-site inspections, our primary goal is to ensure that all proposed work, whether it’s tree removal, pruning, or land clearing, fully complies with the latest legislative requirements, including this new canopy tree protection.
We understand the intricate balance between property management, development goals, and environmental preservation. Our comprehensive arboricultural consulting services, including Tree Health Reports, Pre-inspection Reports, and Arboricultural Impact Assessments, are specifically designed to provide you with the expert advice needed to make informed decisions and smoothly navigate permit processes. These detailed reports are invaluable for assisting with permit applications, planning development, and implementing effective tree management strategies.
What This Means for Our Valued Customers
This new legislation brings a few key considerations for homeowners and business owners:
- Professional Guidance is Key: To avoid potential council or state penalties, it’s more important than ever to rely on seasoned professionals for advice on your trees. Misunderstanding the regulations could lead to hefty fines or mandatory replanting orders. Our arborists can assess your trees, determine their protected status, and guide you through the correct procedures.
- Streamlined Permit Processes: While there’s certainly more processing involved, the Victorian government has acknowledged this and advised that these permit processes are being fast-tracked. For simple cases involving a single tree, quick and simple permits can often be applied for via Vicsmart, making the process less daunting than it might initially seem. Treeman Melbourne can even assist with the lodgement of council permits, saving you time and stress.
Your Trees, Our Expertise: Ensuring a Green, Compliant Future
Whether you’re considering tree removal to clear space, need expert tree pruning to enhance your garden’s aesthetics and health, or require a comprehensive arboricultural report for a larger development, Treeman Melbourne is your trusted partner. Our commitment extends beyond just performing the work; it encompasses providing peace of mind through expert advice, meticulous planning, and unwavering adherence to regulations. We’re available 24/7 for emergency tree services, ensuring that even unexpected hazards are handled safely and compliantly.
Don’t let new legislation turn tree care into a headache. Let Treeman Melbourne’s expert team help you understand your obligations, navigate the permit process, and maintain your property’s trees responsibly.
Contact Treeman Melbourne today for an obligation-free quote and expert advice on your tree care needs. Let us ensure your property remains beautiful, safe, and compliant with Victoria’s new canopy tree protections.
Call us on 0432 517 426 or send us photos of your tree HERE.
