Hornsby Shire Council formally endorsed a submission to the NSW Government at its meeting on 11 June, supporting proposed reforms to strengthen rules around illegal tree and vegetation clearing in urban areas.
The submission responds to the NSW Government's Explanation of Intended Effect (EIE), which outlines changes designed to enhance environmental protections, improve enforcement, and promote urban resilience in the face of climate change.
Key elements of the proposed reforms include increased fines and penalties for illegal clearing; stronger enforcement of restrictions where illegal clearing has occurred; improving council's power to issue orders for vegetation clearing; closing loopholes around the removal of dead or dangerous vegetation; and mandatory replanting conditions for tree clearing permits.
Hornsby Shire Mayor Warren Waddell said the reforms are a welcome step forward in protecting Hornsby's valued urban forest.
"These proposed changes will give Hornsby Council stronger tools to investigate and act on these offences, helping us preserve the green character of our suburbs. Trees also play a critical role in keeping our Shire cool, healthy and liveable."
Council's submission highlights the need for a state-led public education campaign to raise awareness about the value of urban trees and vegetation and foster long-term change. The NSW Government has a target of 40% urban canopy cover for Greater Sydney by 2036.
The endorsed submission will now form part of Council's ongoing advocacy to ensure that environmental protections keep pace with urban development.
Also at last night's meeting, Council:
- Endorsed the Hornsby Shire 2035 Community Strategic Plan
- Noted that as a consequence of the 2025 Report and Determination of the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal, Council remains in the Metropolitan Medium Category of NSW councils
- Resolved to reestablish the Hornsby Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander Consultative Committee and the Hornsby Shire Heritage Advisory Committee
- Adopted the 2025-2029 Delivery Program and 2025/26 Operational Plan, including the Budget and 2025/26 Fees and Charges
- Resolved to write off debts considered bad for the 2024/25 Financial Year
- Approved the Hornsby Development Control Plan 2024 amendments for dual occupancy development and the Heritage Development Control Plan amendments
- Following Notices of Motion from Councillor Tilbury, resolved to hold an informal Councillor Briefing and to write to state and federal MPs around improvements to local footpaths and shared paths.
The full agenda of the meeting, along with details of each item discussed, can be found at hornsby.nsw.gov.au. The video recording of the meeting will be available from Friday afternoon.
