Trees on Private Property

Many areas in the City of South Perth are experiencing a significant loss of trees on private properties, reducing the overall tree canopy cover. It is critical that these trees are preserved wherever possible. 

Preserve an existing tree - Significant Tree Register

To preserve a tree on private property, the property owner may wish to register the tree on the City’s Significant Tree Register.

A tree or group of trees may hold significant value for their visual, aesthetic, botanic, scientific, ecological, historical, commemorative, cultural or social aspects.

A tree or trees nominated for listing must meet one or more of these criteria as well as an analysis of health to be considered for listing. 

If a tree is nominated by someone other than the owner of the property on which it is situated, written consent from the owner must be obtained. 

Once registered, the Tree of Special Significance will be listed on the title of the private property it is planted on. Trees of Special Significance can not be removed, pruned or maintained in any way without written permission from the City.

All the Significant Trees in the City are identified with a purple dot on Intramaps.

Nominate a Significant Tree

Branches and roots from neighbouring trees

While trees can grow beyond property boundaries, it is important to respect your neighbour's safety and public amenity when managing trees on private property.

Branches and roots from trees can, and often do, extend well past property boundaries. Despite this, trees should ideally be left to grow naturally without unnecessary pruning. 

If a branch or root of a neighbour’s tree encroaches on your property and causes an issue, you are allowed to cut and remove the branch or root up to the boundary of your land. You must not cut the branch or root on your neighbour’s side of the boundary without their agreement.

It is best to discuss any pruning with your neighbour, especially if you are cutting any structural roots, as this may weaken the tree. If in doubt, please engage the services of a reputable consulting arborist.

Any root, branch, flower or fruit on a branch that is removed remains the property of the tree’s owner.

Tree safety

If you think your neighbour’s tree is a danger to people or property you should:

• Speak with your neighbour about your concerns and attempt to reach an amicable solution
• Write to the owner requesting works to be undertaken on their tree and keep a copy of the letter
• Obtain an arboricultural report from a qualified consultant and give it to the owner with a request to carry out required works.

Damage caused by a neighbouring tree

If a tree has caused damage to your property, you can notify your neighbour in writing and request:

• Reimbursement for the costs of repairs and other expenses
• That the offending part of the tree is removed.

Trees for your yard

The City recommends planting waterwise trees with a non-invasive root system on your property. The following trees are ideal for the Perth climate.