Published on Wednesday, 26 November 2025 at 4:19:34 PM
The Town of Bassendean has marked the first anniversary of its updated Local Planning Policy 13 (LPP13) – Tree Retention and Provision, which introduced new measures to protect significant trees on private property.
The Town was the first local authority in Western Australia to adopt the model policy, developed by the Western Australian Local Government Association, which has set a new benchmark in urban tree protection across Western Australia.
Adopted by Council in September 2024, the amended policy supports the Town’s Tree Canopy Action Plan 2023–2027, which outlines 41 actions focused on tree protection, planning, community programs, partnerships, and advocacy.
Mayor Kath Hamilton said the Town’s commitment to tree protection reflects strong community support.
“Trees quietly improve our quality of life. They shade our streets, clean our air, reduce stormwater runoff, and even boost property values,” said Mayor Hamilton.
“Our community has told us that protecting and growing our tree canopy is a priority. Trees are a long-term investment in the health and wellbeing of our Town, and we’re proud to be setting the standard with a policy that protects trees in both public and private spaces.”
LPP13 ensures trees are considered at every stage of development and protects ‘regulated trees’ on private property from removal and significant damage.
A tree is considered regulated if it:
- is over 8 metres tall
- has a canopy wider than 6 metres
- has a trunk circumference of 1.5 metres or more (measured 1.4 metres above ground)
- is not listed as a weed species on State or local area weed registers.
Exemptions apply to maintenance pruning and where tree removal or other damaging activities are urgently required for safety reasons, in accordance with an approved bushfire management plan, to prevent limbs or root encroachment over an adjoining property, or if the tree is on the Town’s unwanted species list.
In a significant milestone for the policy, the Town has successfully prosecuted its first case of unauthorised removal of regulated trees. The court found that the accused was aware that approval was required but proceeded with the work regardless. A penalty of $17,000 was imposed, and the accused was ordered to pay the Town’s legal costs.
Mayor Hamilton said: “This prosecution shows we are fully committed to enforcing the policy and protecting our urban forest. It sends a clear message that regulated trees must not be removed without approval.”
“The Town is actively planting trees in parks, streets, and natural areas with support from local bush care groups, but to reach its goal of 30% canopy cover by 2040, community involvement is essential.”
“It’s not just about planting new trees - it’s about protecting the mature ones we already have. It takes years for new trees to grow tall enough to provide the same benefits. Every tree counts.”
To learn more about the Tree Retention and Provision Policy, visit Trees & Verges » Town of Bassendean
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