Significant Tree Policy
Many of the trees found in our parks, gardens and road reserves have significant aesthetic, cultural and/or historical importance. In acknowledging these important values Kingborough Council decided to establish a Significant Tree Policy.
The policy outlines the process and the criteria to be considered for the listing or delisting of significant trees Table E24.1 of the Kingborough Interim Planning Scheme 2015.
Currently, there are 668 trees listed in Table E24.1 of the Kingborough Interim Planning Scheme, all of which can be viewed below.
What makes a tree significant?
A tree must meet the requirements of one or more categories of significance that will act to set the tree apart from others of its type to be included on in the planning scheme.
- Aesthetic significance
- Size (height, circumference, canopy)
- Age
- Landscape significance
- Historical significance
- Rarity of species, variety or genome
- Unusual physical features
How to manage your significant tree?

Download a copy of our ‘How to manage your registered tree’ brochure for more detailed information on your roles and responsibilities.
How to nominate a significant tree?
Nominations for listing or delisting can be made in writing by completing the Significant Tree Nomination Form 2023.
What happens after a tree is listed in the planning scheme?
Once a tree is listed, it will not be physically sign-posted, but details of the listing will be publicised in the Planning Scheme and on Council’s website.
Any person wanting to cut, remove or otherwise alter the state of a significant tree must contact Council as a permit may be required.
In situations where an immediate risk to public safety from a significant tree is identified, Council approval must still be obtained; and Council reserves the right to require an arborist’s assessment to be undertaken. In these circumstances the decision may be determined by the General Manager under delegated authority.
Development applications that may impact or include the removal of a tree listed in Table E24.1 are required to be assessed against the Significant Trees Code of the planning scheme.
SIGNIFICANT TREE LISTINGS AND DATA SHEETS