Protected Vegetation in Logan Council – What you need to know

If you have an old tree you wanted to remove or need to trim the old branches of vegetation on your property, your trees may be protected under local law. The City of Logan has permitted areas of Biodiversity in which certain species of vegetation and trees are protected. We take a look at the types of species that are managed under local law, your rights as a property owner, and the process you need to follow to remove a conserved tree.

Types of Protected Trees in the City of Logan

Before you grab the chainsaw or start cutting branches off trees in your garden, you need to determine which of these are protected. According to the city, local vegetation is protected in two parts. This makes it easier to determine which types of trees are safeguarded and the procedure you need to follow to manage specimens located on your property.

According to the vegetation area map of the city, all protected native vegetation is displayed in pink. The second part consists of protected trees as light green on the same map. Trees measured as greater than 4m in height or possessing a trunk diameter of 31.5cm or more will be legally safeguarded against removal and trims without permission. You can search your property here.

The City of Logan takes pride in its environmental heritage and there are listed tree species that remain optimally protected. These include the vegetation that is considered threatened.

Types of protected trees in Logan Council area may include

* Bailey’s Cypress Pine
* Veiny Fontainea
* The Giant Ironwood
* Floyd’s Walnut
* Macadamia Nut
* Hairy Hazelwood
* Small Leaved Tamarind
* Long Leaved Tuckaroo
* Plunkett Mallee

Property Owner Rights

It is your responsibility as the owner of a tree growing on your property to maintain its health and hazard-free condition. If you own the land, you are responsible for the tree growing on your land.

Tree branches that are overhanging your neighbour’s property can only be trimmed back if it is not listed under the Protection Act.

Trees that need to be lopped, pruned or removed must receive approval from the Logan Council. Whether for future building plans or to address risk, applicants must use the DA form obtained from the council online to receive approval. This includes submission of building plans.

Process for Protected Tree Removal

First determine whether the tree you wish to remove includes a VPO or Vegetation Protection Order. You can do this by phoning the council and providing them with your address.

If your tree is protected, you must apply to the council of Logan to proceed with the removal. This includes supporting reasons and documents (in the cases of building plans) to justify the removal. The council will issue a permit for removal upon approval.

Ever attempt to remove heritage trees without consulting your local council. You could face large fines and possible court appearance. Only qualified arborists should be contacted to perform site clearing and complete tree removal.

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