Local Voices Heard: Council Push Spurs State Action on Tree Vandalism

Published on 25 April 2025

In a major win for Councils like Lane Cove, the NSW Government is cracking down on illegal tree clearing. Proposed reforms will more than double fines for individuals—up to $6,000 per tree—and triple penalties for corporations, reaching $18,000 per tree. Harsher penalties will apply to repeat offenders and those targeting trees in sensitive areas like heritage zones, foreshores, and reserves. Councils will also be encouraged to fine per tree, not just per incident.

The reforms also propose that illegal clearing be recorded on planning certificates, with future changes potentially lowering the burden of proof for prosecutions. In extreme cases, jail time could be considered. Minister for Planning Paul Scully said the reforms would help “better protect the existing tree canopy,” particularly amid increased housing density. Environment Minister Penny Sharpe added: “Tackling illegal tree clearing is an essential part of this” as NSW battles worsening urban heat.

Lane Cove Council Mayor Merri Southwood welcomes the announcement, stating "in the face of increasing tree vandalism, Lane Cove Council remains steadfast in advocating for our community and protecting our biodiversity. Our upcoming legal action regarding the destruction of 290 trees in Longueville underscores the urgent need to safeguard our green spaces. We are thrilled that our ongoing advocacy has yielded this result and encourage our community to show their support via the current community consultation process."

Have Your Say

The reforms are out on consultation until June 4. Local Government NSW President Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM welcomed the move, saying, “we need to ensure that penalties act as a sufficient deterrent for the small minority who think they’re above the law.”

To read the illegal tree and vegetation clearing Explanation of Intended Effect (EIE) and make a submission visit the Vegetation in non-rural areas web page.

Lane Cove Council A Leading Voice on Tree Vandalism

Lane Cove Council has been vocal about the need for a stronger response to tree vandalism, meeting with the NSW Government to advocate for the local community and Lane Cove’s biodiversity. Council is currently preparing to undertake legal action regarding the destruction of 290 trees in Longueville in September 2023 and has been regularly asking the community to report tree vandalism to deter this illegal activity. Similarly to Council’s efforts, the state’s proposed new measures not only aim to deter illegal actions but also seek to promote community engagement in conservation efforts.

Tree vandalism and clearing can detrimentally affect wildlife habitats and the overall environment of the area. In response to this concerning trend, the Lane Cove Council has issued clear guidelines regarding the legal ramifications of such vandalism, reinforcing the importance of protecting trees not only for their aesthetic value but also for their critical ecological roles.

Council has urged residents to stay vigilant and proactive in safeguarding the community's green spaces, regularly encouraging residents to report any potential acts of vandalism. Council is also exploring increased surveillance measures in areas that are most affected by tree vandalism.