Protecting our Native Vegetation

Native vegetation is fundamental to the health of our landscapes and communities. It supports wildlife, filters waterways, stabilises soils, builds resilience against drought and flood, and holds profound significance for Traditional Owners.

Native vegetation includes trees, shrubs and grasses and herbs on the ground.

It is illegal to remove, destroy, or lop native vegetation without a planning permit from Council or a valid exemption under the Planning & Environment Act 1987 (Vic).

These protections apply to both public and private land. Even if removal is authorised, it must be to the minimum extent necessary.

Native vegetation may also be protected by significant landscape, environmental significance, vegetation protection and heritage overlays, as well as laws designed to protect threatened species and communities including the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (Vic) and Environment Protection & Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth). Exemptions under the Pyrenees Planning Scheme do not apply to these protections.

Unauthorised removal of native vegetation can result in serious legal consequences.

Please contact Council for advice if you are considering removing native vegetation.

Native vegetation removal exemptions

Exemptions from needing a permit to remove native vegetation may be available for certain activities like fencing, vehicle access from public roads and bushfire protection of dwellings.

These exemptions are set out in the Pyrenees Planning Scheme: