VicSmart Clause 59.06 – Decision Guidelines
59.06 – Remove, destroy or lop a tree is the clause in local planning schemes that sets out the following for VicSmart planning applications:
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59.06 REMOVE, DESTROY OR LOP A TREE
59.06-2 Decision guidelines
31/07/2018 VC148
In assessing an application the responsible authority must consider as appropriate:
- The statement of significance and the objectives contained in the schedule to the overlay and whether the proposal will adversely affect that significance or the objectives.
- Whether the tree proposed to be removed, destroyed or lopped contributes to the significance of the area and whether the proposal will adversely affect that significance.
- Whether the removal or lopping of the tree is needed because of the health of the tree.
- Whether the lopping of the tree will adversely affect the health, appearance or significance of the tree.
- Whether the removal of the tree will contribute to soil erosion, slippage or salinisation.
- Whether the removal or lopping of the tree is needed to create a defendable space to reduce the risk of bushfire to life and property.
- If the tree is a native tree, its role in conserving flora and fauna and whether the proposal will adversely affect the conservation of flora and fauna of the area.
- Whether provision is made to plant a new tree elsewhere on the land.
- The reasons for removing the tree including the health of the tree to be removed.
- The cumulative impact of the number of trees that have been removed or been approved for removal in the past 3 years.
- Any relevant decision guideline specified in the overlay or the schedule to the overlay
Source: Victoria Planning Provisions – VicSmart Clause 59.06 by the State of Victoria
