At the City of Whittlesea, we are committed to increasing our tree cover to make our neighbourhoods cooler, greener, and more liveable.
Street trees are valuable community assets that provide shade, clean air, beauty, and provide homes for birds and animals.
Removing a street tree is a serious decision with long-term impacts. Council will only consider removal when there is no other feasible option, and approval is at Council’s discretion.
When tree removal will not be approved
Tree removal will not be approved if:
- The tree is in good health and provides amenity to the area
- There is an alternative design or access option
- Impacts on the tree can be avoided through revised plans.
When tree removal may be considered
Even well-designed developments can require a new driveway crossover that conflicts with an existing street tree. Council may approve tree removal if:
- The tree blocks required property access
- There is less than 2.5m clearance between the new driveway and the tree (to allow for tree health and driver visibility).
If your project involves a new crossover, it’s best to request a tree valuation early in the process to understand potential costs. Speak to the planner assigned to your application if you think your proposal may be in conflict with the tree.
Removing a street tree is often costly. The fee reflects both the physical removal and amenity value lost to the community. Council’s arborist will assess the tree based on:
- Species
- Size and trunk diameter
- Health and condition
- Age and expected lifespan
- Environmental and visual value to the community.
Council will complete the tree removal (if approved) and invoice you for all related costs.
These costs may include:
- Tree and stump removal
- Traffic management and safety measures
- Replanting of new trees
- The value of the tree to the community.
Tree removal is at your expense and can be costly.
Download the tree valuation guidelines for more information on the tree valuation process, removal costs and more.
Tree valuation guidelines(PDF, 856KB)
Tree valuation guidelines (accessible version)(DOCX, 86KB)
Below are real examples from the City of Whittlesea to help you understand how tree values are calculated.
Snow in Summer (Melaleuca linarifolia)
Location: Epping
Value: $100,000
Notes: Large tree (trunk >1m), excellent health, decades-old.
This tree in Epping has an estimated amenity value of $100,000 due to its large size, good health and decades-long presence in the area. Its trunk diameter is over 1 metre.
When calculating removal costs, we consider not only the work required to remove the tree, but also the loss of its environmental and community values.
Japanese Elm (Zelkova serrata)
Location: Epping
Value: $15,000
Notes: Healthy boulevard tree at shopping precinct entry.
This Japanese Maple in Epping is valued at just over $15,000. This healthy tree is part of a boulevard that marks the entrance to the local shopping district. Its removal would affect the overall look and feel of the streetscape, so its value reflects both its condition and its importance to the area's visual appeal.
River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis)
Location: South Morang
Value: $1,000,000
Notes: Old, iconic tree protected by surrounding parkland.
This River Red Gum in South Morang is valued at nearly $1 million. Its high value reflects its great age, excellent condition, and long-term importance to the community. A park has been established around the tree to protect it, and no development will take place on the site to ensure its preservation for future generations.