# Ecology 1.1 - Tree Retention
# Applies to
All subdivisions
# Relevant Victoria Planning Provisions
# Clause 56
# 56.05-1 Integrated urban landscape objectives (opens new window)
To incorporate natural and cultural features in the design of streets and public open space where appropriate.
To protect and enhance native habitat and discourage the planting and spread of noxious weeds.
Standard C12
The landscape design should:
- Implement any relevant streetscape, landscape, urban design or native vegetation precinct plan, strategy or policy for the area set out in this scheme.
- Respond to the site and context description for the site and surrounding area.
- Maintain significant vegetation where possible within an urban context.
- Take account of the physical features of the land including landform, soil and climate.
- Protect and enhance any significant natural and cultural features.
- Protect and link areas of significant local habitat where appropriate.
# Other relevant clauses
# 52.37 Canopy trees (opens new window)
Purpose includes: to protect and enhance canopy tree cover to support greener and cooler residential areas.
# 12.06-1S Urban forests (opens new window)
Strategies Contribute to achieving an overall 30 per cent tree canopy target for urban areas by:
- Encouraging the retention of existing canopy trees.
# Summary
# Better practice
Awarded for retention of ≥85% high AND ≥55% medium retention value trees, with mapped tree locations and retention percentages clearly shown.
# Excellence
Awarded for retention of ≥90% high AND ≥70% medium retention value trees, with mapped tree locations and retention percentages clearly shown.
# Documentation & evidence required
Note: Council may request additional supporting documentation, such as a native vegetation or ecological assessment report.
# Landscape Masterplan
- All retained trees marked on plans.
- Annotation to plans: % of high & medium value trees retained
# Further Information
Tree retention should be informed by both arboricultural and biodiversity assessments and take into account any Native Vegetation Precinct Plan (NVPP), where applicable.
Assessment should consider both ecological and arboricultural values—for example, trees that may not be structurally significant but provide important habitat for fauna.