Street Trees
The City of Nedlands is widely recognised as a district of green and leafy suburbs, which for many residents is an integral part of the desirability of living in the City.
Street trees are living assets belonging to the City and its community. Local streetscapes and the wider community benefit from street trees in a variety of ways including:
- Providing shade and protection from weather elements
- Reducing glare
- Improving mental health and well-being
- Providing habitat for a diversity of fauna
- Adding moisture and oxygen to the air
- Removing carbon dioxide and other air pollutants
- Providing attractive streetscapes that soften the built environment
- Providing a sense of place and a connection to nature
Street Trees Policy
With the continued growth of the City, and the associated impact on trees on private property, there is an increasing significance attached to the City’s street trees. Management of the City’s street trees is guided by Council’s Street Trees Policy. It is Council’s objective through policy to secure the benefits provided by the City’s street trees to ensure these remain accessible into the future.
Street Tree Management
The City and its community have identified better management of the City’s street tree assets as a key focus in the City of Nedlands Strategic Community Plan. The City manages approximately 18,000 street trees and intends to further increase this number over time. A Street Tree Management Plan is being implemented to ensure the shared vision for preservation and enhancement of its tree-lined streets is realised.
Who is responsible for maintaining street trees?
The City is responsible for the maintenance of all trees located on the nature strip (verge) including planting, pruning and removal if necessary.
A large proportion of street trees within the City are mature and require ongoing maintenance. Where overhead power lines are present, street trees are pruned in accordance with Western Power requirements for the clearance of overhead power lines.
The City’s qualified staff, along with contractors, maintain the trees to ensure:
- They enhance the streetscape
- Pedestrians can walk safely and comfortably under trees
- Road and street signs are kept visible
- Vehicle users can safely see and access streets and properties
- Trees are kept away from powerlines
- Street lights are not obstructed
- Public safety is maintained
All pruning of street trees is carried out by suitably qualified personnel in accordance with best practice arboricultural techniques and standards.
Can I remove a street tree?
Street trees cannot be removed for any reason without approval from the City. Tree removal requests must be submitted in writing to the City.
If you are planning to build a new house or development and intend to carry out works on the nature strip that will impact a street tree, including constructing or altering a crossover, you are required to consult with the City and obtain all approvals. You should provide all relevant information regarding the reasons you are seeking the removal of a street tree.
How does the City decide which species of street trees to plant?
Decisions made in respect to street tree selection are crucial as trees are intended to occupy the streetscape for anywhere up to 150+ years. The selection of street tree species requires careful consideration of many factors and is based on the principle of ‘suitable trees for suitable locations’.
The City has assessed a broad range of trees and compiled a list of suitable species for use as street trees. Please see the approved Street Trees Species List via the link on this page or obtain a copy by contacting the City.
Request a free street tree!