The South Australian Government is taking proactive steps to enhance the protection of Adelaide’s urban tree canopy and preserve large, mature trees from potential destruction.
Introducing new planning regulations, the government is fulfilling its commitment to implementing best practice tree protections across the country.
Immediate action has been taken, with the implementation of regulations aimed at safeguarding a greater number of trees. These changes include reducing the trunk size threshold for regulated trees from two meters to one meter, and for significant trees from three meters to two.
Furthermore, exemptions for tree removal based on proximity to homes and pools have been tightened. Previously allowing for removal within 10 meters, exemptions now only apply to trees within three meters of a home or pool without approval.
To ensure responsible tree management, pruning limits have been imposed on regulated and significant trees, allowing only 30 percent of the tree’s canopy to be removed every five years.
The new regulations also offer flexibility by enabling adjustments to the exempt species list to better align with local needs and community preferences through notices on the PlanSA website.
In a move to reflect the true cost of tree replacement, fees for the destruction or removal of protected trees have been increased. Offset fees for regulated trees have risen from $326 to $1000, and for significant trees from $489 to $1500.
Funds generated from tree removal fees contribute to either local councils’ urban tree funds or the State Government’s Planning and Development Fund. These funds are utilised for tree planting, establishment, maintenance, or land acquisition to preserve or accommodate the planting of new trees.
These measures underscore the vital role of mature trees in enhancing community wellbeing, supporting biodiversity, and mitigating the urban heat island effect.
The regulatory changes are informed by bipartisan recommendations from the Environment, Resources, and Development Committee of Parliament, as well as guidance from the State Planning Commission, University of Adelaide research, and recommendations from the Expert Panel reviewing South Australia’s planning system.
Additionally, the Minister for Planning has requested the State Planning Commission to develop a design standard for minimum urban tree planting and maintenance requirements in greenfield developments, among other initiatives.
Existing development applications and approvals will have a grace period of 12 months before being affected by these regulatory changes.
For more detailed information, visit the PlanSA website.
At 28th Street Agency, we understand the importance of living in harmony with nature. Whether you’re looking to buy a property with mature trees or seeking expert advice on navigating these new regulations, we’re here to help. Book in for a virtual coffee with Kerryn to discuss finding your dream home or investment property in Adelaide while preserving the natural beauty of our urban canopy.
