Tree vandalism

A tree shouldn't die for a view

In North Sydney, native trees are being killed for water views. All the benefits provided by trees are incrementally reduced with every healthy tree killed.

Every case of tree vandalism costs ratepayers. Depending on the severity of the case, the cost to the community can be more than $8,000 for investigation, signage, replacement and remediation every time it happens.

Tree vandalism is defined as the unlawful destruction, damage or injury to trees and vegetation on community and private land.

Examples include poisoning, mowing, pruning, removal and ringbarking.

Our Tree Vandalism Policy guides the investigation and assessment of incidents of malicious damage to trees. It also details the procedures to be followed once the level of significance of the incident has been assessed.

On average, there are four or five tree vandalism incidents per year of low to medium-high severities.

Report tree vandalism

Reports of tree vandalism are treated confidentially and will be acted on immediately as a breach of the Tree Preservation Order.

As determined in the Tree Vandalism Policy, an investigation will occur and a $10,000 reward is offered for information leading to a successful prosecution. An offence under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act (1979) can incur a penalty of up to $1.1 million.

To report tree vandalism or suspicious activity, please follow these steps:

1. Record information, including:
   • the location and address
   • photos of person and/or vehicle details.
2. Complete our online form or call Council and provide as much info as possible.