The City of Cockburn has developed a draft 'Local Planning Policy 5.26 - Tree Protection' to introduce new requirements for development approval to remove ‘regulated trees’ on private land, and to clarify how these decisions are made. The approval process seeks to ensure that any proposals to remove or damage a regulated tree is carefully assessed, and alternative options to keep the trees are explored.

Tree canopy in our urban environment plays an important role in making Cockburn an attractive place to live, work, visit and invest in. A thriving urban forest provides significant social, economic, and environmental benefits - particularly from large, mature trees with wide canopies that provide shade and visual appeal. The proposed Policy aligns with the City of Cockburn's Urban Forest Plan 2018-2028 and reflects the City's commitment to tree protection and ensuring tree canopy is considered at all stages of development.

The draft policy is proposed to apply to all privately owned residential, industrial, commercial and rural zones within the City of Cockburn and would be used in considering proposals for:

• Removal of specific tree-damaging activity to a regulated tree (excluding typical pruning)
• Development and subdivision applications
• Local Development Plans
• Strategic planning proposals, including scheme amendments, structure plans and precinct plans.

The draft Tree Protection Policy is designed to achieve the following key objectives:

• Encourage tree preservation early in the planning and development stages, while still considering desired building designs and land uses
• Maintain and improve the look and feel of our neighbourhoods
• Help reduce the urban heat island effect, lower air pollution, improve groundwater quality, and support biodiversity and other environmental benefits.

The City understands that this proposed policy may impact residents, developers, and local businesses. This consultation aims to inform the community about the draft policy and provides the opportunity for community to share their thoughts. All feedback will be collected and presented to Council for consideration before a final decision is made.

• Trees 8 metres and taller (excluding palms and specific pest species)
• Trees listed on the City’s ‘Significant Tree’ register
• Trees identified to be retained or planted to replace a large tree removal through subdivision or development.

To help guide the City in considering the proposed changes, the community is invited to share their feedback. Once the consultation period ends, the City will review all feedback and then make a recommendation to the Council; who will then determine the final outcome.