Mobile CCTV installed following suspected tree poisoning on South Perth foreshore

The City has installed a mobile CCTV unit near Lake Douglas on the South Perth foreshore after a young tall tree—believed to have been deliberately poisoned—was discovered.

The affected tree is located near, but not part of, the six trees approved for removal by Council on 22 July 2025 (Resolution 0727/140).

The City treats vandalism of trees and vegetation seriously. Under local and state laws, damaging City-owned trees—whether by poisoning, ringbarking or cutting—can lead to substantial penalties, including prosecution.

The City manages a large number of trees across streetscapes, reserves and natural areas, and any vandalised trees will be replaced. In some cases, signage will be installed to alert the community to incidents where trees have been poisoned, ringbarked or illegally removed.

Under the City’s Public Places and Local Government Property Local Law 2011, trees located on City-owned land are classified as City property. As such, any unauthorised damage, removal or interference may result in prosecution.

Section 10.2 of the Local Law allows the City to issue notices requiring offenders to reinstate or replace damaged property, or cover the cost of doing so.

These local laws are legally binding under the Local Government Act 1995, and penalties apply for non-compliance.

If you have any information about intentional damage to vegetation , please contact the City on 9474 0777 or lodge an online request.