# Ecology 3.1 - Tree Canopy
Providing tree canopy in new subdivisions supports urban cooling, biodiversity, and community wellbeing. A well-designed urban landscape with significant tree cover helps create attractive, comfortable, and resilient neighbourhoods.
The Victorian Planning Provisions include the following objectives for tree canopy (at 56.05-1):
- To implement relevant streetscape, landscape, urban design, or native vegetation precinct plans, strategies, or policies for the area.
- To maintain significant vegetation where possible within an urban context.
- To take account of the physical features of the land, including landform, soil, and climate.
BESS rewards subdivisions that consider tree canopy by:
- Providing at least 30% tree canopy coverage in all public open space areas.
- Providing at least 30% tree canopy coverage in road reserve areas.
- Ensuring the early provision of medium to large trees.
- Providing adequate space for root growth to support healthy, long-lived trees.