Trees

Trees are a big part of the Peninsula's character and biodiversity. Learn more about all things trees and vegetation, including:

  • how we maintain, protect and manage trees
  • what to do when trees and vegetation become a problem
  • how to report fallen trees or branches and other tree issues

If you are looking to work on the nature strip or road reserve along your property, check out the Nature strips (roadside reserves) page.

Thinking of planting? Think local. You can discover what's plants are native to your area of the Peninsula using our Mornington Peninsula Plant Guides and purchase plants from the Shire nursery.

 

In a weather emergency, always keep clear of trees and fallen powerlines.

Who to contact when trees fall as a result of the weather:

  • Fallen or dangerous trees on private property need to be reported to the SES on 132 500.
  • Fallen or dangerous trees on Shire land including road reserves, parks or bushland should be reported to the Shire on 1300 850 600 or via web chat.
    You can also Report a Tree Concern online.
  • Fallen or dangerous trees on roads managed by VicRoads (main arterial roads) should be reported to VicRoads on 131 171.

Find out more about emergencies on our Emergency Information page.

Vegetation from private property encroaching on safe and maintained pedestrian or bicycle paths is the responsibility of the property owner.  

Vegetation on public land: If the tree or vegetation is on public land, please

Report tree problem

Please note: if a fallen tree or branch is unsafe or potentially dangerous please call: 1300 850 600 or 5950 1000.

Did you know that the Shire has three Tree Response Crews that undertake pruning, branch pickups and other maintenance across the Peninsula?  The crews work in all townships across the Peninsula, with each focusing on a geographic region to improve efficiency and reduce travel times.

Report a  tree problem 

Once we receive a report, the task will be prioritised. When an outcome can be achieved in the short term, works are scheduled for Direct Action. If a case requires more extensive work or is complex, a Referral is made to the tree management team for further investigation and response.  In some instances our qualified tree inspectors will then attend to the case.

 

 

 

 

 

Vegetation from private property encroaching on safe and maintained pedestrian or bicycle paths is the responsibility of the property owner.

Residents concerned with overhanging vegetation from their neigbours' property, should in the first instance speak to their neighbour.  

Find out more about the laws on cutting or pruning neighbours' trees.

If you believe that vegetation is being removed without the required permissions or illegally, then:  

Report illegal vegetation removal

The Shire has an obligation to keep trees and vegetation clear of powerlines and electrical infrastructure within the declared urban area on Shire property only. The clearances requirements are in accordance with Electricity Safety (Electric Lines Clearance Regulations 2015).

The program includes vegetation pruning to achieve clearances around powerlines in declared areas such as High Bushfire Risk Areas (inspected and pruned on an annual basis) and Low Bushfire Risk Areas (inspected and pruned on a 3 yearly cycle).

For further information download the Shire's Electric Line Clearance Management Plan 2022-2023(PDF, 5MB)

Powerlines on private property

Where a powerline leads from the main transmission lines to a private property, it is the owners responsibility to ensure they are kept clear (clearances requirements are in accordance with Electric Lines Clearance Regulations 2015).  

For private property in undeclared high fire risk areas please contact United Energy on 1300 131 689 or visit the United Energy website.

 

Trees are part of the Peninsula's character.  The Shire undertakes maintenance programs that include tree inspections, vegetation pruning, street tree replacement, bushland management and much more.  

Tree Pruning on Public Property

All pruning should comply with Australian Standards 4373 – Pruning of Amenity Trees.  Pruning should only be completed as identified to action the following:

  • Remove structurally unsound limbs.
  • Remove dead or diseased material.
  • Maintain prescribed clearances from service and traffic thoroughfares.
  • Maintain tree form through removal of misshapen limbs.
  • Minimise future problems.
  • To remove an immediate safety risk to the public.

Pruning of large limbs of Council-owned trees is not permitted by anyone other than Council staff service providers engaged by Council.

Learn about:

Pruning of Council-owned trees:

Pruning of large limbs of Council-owned trees is not permitted by anyone other than Council staff service providers engaged by Council.

If you have a tree or vegetation issue, please

Report tree problem

Tree or vegetation removal on your property:

The Mornington Penisula Planning Scheme provides for the protection of native and exotic vegetaion.  Learn more about tree and vegetation removal on your property.

When Shire undertakes tree and vegetation removal: 

Trees are identified for removal through an arborist inspection and then listed as a recommendation for removal.  These trees are given a priority order based on risk. Recommendations for removal can include trees that impact powerlines or damage infrastructure.

The following reasons are not considered for removal under this program:

  • Provide or maintain views from private properties
  • Branch growth over adjacent properties
  • Leaf or nut litter is a natural occurrence
  • Lack of grass growth under tree
  • Trees causing minor damage to infrastructure

Tree Response Crews

Did you know that the Shire has three Tree Response Crews that undertake pruning, branch pickups and other maintenance across the Peninsula?

The crews work in all townships across the Peninsula, with each focusing on a geographic region to improve efficiency and reduce travel times.

Let us know if you have a tree related request or concern.

Report a Problem

Our qualified tree inspectors will then attend to the case.  When an outcome can be achieved in the short term, works are scheduled for Direct Action. If a case requires more extensive work or is complex, a Referral is made to the tree management team for further investigation and response.

Tree Inspections

The Shire complete programmed tree inspections along road lengths, under powerlines and of individual trees in parks and reserves.

The Shire responds to customer requests for inspection of street trees respond to aspects such as in terms of growth, structural defects, storm damage, fungal infections, borer activity or disease putting the health of the trees at risk and the encroachment into pavements, tracks and other open areas that may cause safety hazards is also included.

Please note: Private trees are excluded from Shire programmed or reactive inspections. 

 

Township Street Tree and Vegetation Policy

The Shire has a Township Street Tree and Vegetation Policy which provides guidelines within regard to the management of vegetation within the Road Reserve.

Download: Street Tree and Vegetation Policy 2006(PDF, 969KB)

 

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