Council is advising residents to check with staff before removing or trimming native vegetation following an increase in incidents of illegal vegetation removal in the shire.
Native vegetation is protected and a permit may be required for removal of trees, bushes, grasses and herbs. These plants may be protected by planning controls including significant landscape, environment significance, vegetation protection and heritage overlays. There may also be agreements or covenants on land titles relating to vegetation protection.
Examples of property clean up that may require a permit include:
- using heavy machinery to clean up fallen trees (if property clean up exposes the soil you may be damaging the native vegetation)
- clearing away understory to sow grass under trees
- any tree or shrub removal.
The Victorian Government's policy for native vegetation is outlined in the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning's Guidelines for the Removal, Destruction or Lopping of Native Vegetation. This is a state-wide document and must be considered by Council when assessing proposals to remove native vegetation.
These guidelines seek to ensure there is no net loss to biodiversity as a result of the removal, destruction or lopping of native vegetation. They also assist in the protection of vital habitat for insects, reptiles, birds and mammals.
Council's Director Planning and Environment Rebecca Stockfeld said it is important that landholders realise that native vegetation is protected and that a permit may be required for any removal of both trees and understorey such as bushes and grasses.
"These mechanisms are in place to help preserve our stunning natural environment in the Macedon Ranges. It's what makes it so special and we all play an important part in looking after it," she said.
