Trees, plants and ground covers

Residents must keep trees, plants and ground covers trimmed within their property lines. Doing so ensures there is enough space for pedestrians and vehicles to pass by safely.

Council inspects local streets for overhanging and encroaching trees and plants.

If an issue is found:

• Council will notify the owner/resident via a visit, a phone call or a calling card left at the property
• Council may request the owner/resident address the issue in a specified time frame with a notice to comply

Penalties for non-compliance

A planning permit may be required to remove, destroy or lop any vegetation on private or public land, including dead vegetation.

Particular attention should be paid to Native Vegetation which may include trees, shrubs, herbs and grasses indigenous to Victoria.

Overhanging trees and plants between neighbouring properties can can cause neighbourly conflict.

You can:

• trim branches and plants up to the boundary line of your property

You can not:

• enter your neighbour’s property without permission
• trim branches or plants over the property boundary line

If you have an issue with overhanging trees and plants from your neighbours property, you should attempt to resolve the issue by speaking with your neighbour.

If the issue is not resolved, it may be considered a civil matter. These types of matters are not handled by Council. It is recommended you seek legal advice for dealing with these types of issues.

Swan Hill – Declared area

Other areas of the municipality

A person must not plant or remove any tree or vegetation on a road reserve without a permit.