At A-Local Tree Service, we understand that trees are essential to our environment and provide numerous benefits, such as shade, improved air quality, and enhanced property aesthetics. However, without proper care and maintenance, trees can pose a risk to people and property. This blog post will discuss who is responsible for tree maintenance, the importance of tree maintenance and removal, and other relevant information related to tree care.
Why tree maintenance and removal is important
Tree maintenance is vital to keep trees healthy and safe. Regular maintenance can help identify and address potential hazards before they cause damage or harm, as trees that are not maintained can fall or drop branches, potentially causing damage or injury. In addition to caring for the trees on your property, removing dead trees is crucial to preventing them from falling and causing harm.
Each property owner has a responsibility to maintain the trees on their property
As a property owner, you have a legal obligation to maintain the trees on your property. This includes regular inspection, pruning, and removal of dead or dying trees. Failing to do so could result in liability if your tree falls and damages your neighbour’s property or injures someone. However, it’s important to note that tree lopping or pruning requires specialist knowledge and should only be carried out by a qualified arborist.
The responsibilities of a body corporate in tree maintenance
In the case of a body corporate, the responsibility for tree management varies depending on whether the tree is on common property or a lot owner’s property. If the tree is on common property, the body corporate is responsible for maintaining it. This includes regular inspection, pruning, and the removal of any dead tree or trees you may come across. It’s important to note that common property refers to any property not contained within a lot, such as driveways, paths, and common garden areas.
If the tree is on a lot owner’s property, the owner is responsible for maintaining it. However, the body corporate may still have a role in ensuring that the tree does not pose a risk to the surrounding properties.
What is QCAT, and what jurisdiction do they have over Queensland homes?
The Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) is a body that has jurisdiction over disputes related to tree management between lot owners and body corporates. This includes disputes related to tree removal, pruning, or any other tree-related issues. QCAT can help resolve disputes and make legally binding decisions to ensure all parties comply with local laws and regulations.
It’s essential for property owners to understand their legal obligations and responsibilities regarding tree maintenance and management. By working with qualified arborists and consulting with QCAT when necessary, property owners can ensure they follow the correct procedures and avoid potential liability issues.
Local laws
Local laws regarding tree maintenance and removal vary depending on the council. Property owners should consult with their local council or a qualified arborist to ensure they follow the correct procedures. Some councils have specific rules and regulations for tree removal or pruning; failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines or legal action.
The benefits of having healthy trees
Healthy trees provide multiple benefits to the environment, such as reducing air pollution, improving soil health, and providing habitats for wildlife. In addition, they can also reduce energy costs by providing shade and shelter from the wind, which can lead to significant yearly savings on heating and cooling costs. Moreover, healthy trees can enhance a property’s aesthetic appeal and provide a natural element to the landscape, thus increasing the overall property value.
The importance of tree management plans
A tree management plan is a comprehensive plan for the care and maintenance of trees on a property. Property owners can benefit from having a tree management plan in place, as it can help identify potential hazards, promote the health of trees, and ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.
Tree management plans typically include a detailed inventory of all trees on the property and an assessment of their health and potential risks. The plan will also outline a maintenance schedule for each tree, including pruning, watering, and fertilisation. Property owners can ensure that their trees are well-maintained and healthy by having a tree management plan in place, reducing the risk of potential hazards such as falling branches or trees. In addition, a tree management plan can help property owners comply with local laws and regulations, preventing potential fines or legal issues.
Tree maintenance: more than just pruning and removal
Tree maintenance includes more than just pruning and removal. Other types of maintenance, such as mulching, fertilising, and disease management, can help keep trees healthy and prevent the need for removal. Property owners should work with qualified arborists to develop a comprehensive tree maintenance plan that considers all aspects of tree care.
Overhanging branches
If a neighbour’s tree has overhanging branches on your property, you can legally trim them back to the boundary line. However, it’s important to ensure that the work doesn’t damage the tree or cause safety hazards. Before carrying out any work, it’s always best to consult a qualified arborist to ensure the job is completed safely and correctly.
Tree removal
In some cases, tree removal may be necessary if a tree is diseased, dead, or poses a significant risk to people or property. Property owners should be aware that removing a tree can considerably impact the surrounding environment and should consider the impact of removal carefully. Local councils have their own rules regarding tree removal, and it’s important to ensure that you have the necessary permits and permissions before carrying out any work.
Bare trunks
If a tree has a bare trunk, it may be an indication of poor health or disease. Property owners should regularly inspect their trees and look for signs of damage, disease, or decay. A tree with a bare trunk may need to be removed to prevent it from falling and causing harm.
Tips on tree care
Here are some general tree care tips for property owners:
- Water trees deeply and infrequently, rather than frequent shallow watering, to encourage deep root growth.
- Mulch around the base of trees to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. However, be careful not to place mulch directly against the trunk, as this can cause moisture buildup and lead to decay.
- Prune trees regularly to remove dead or diseased branches, improve tree structure, and promote healthy growth.
- Hire a qualified arborist to perform any significant pruning or removal work to ensure the work is carried out safely and correctly.
- Be aware of common tree diseases in your area and inspect your trees regularly for signs of disease, such as discolouration or abnormal growth.
- Follow local laws and regulations regarding tree care and removal, including obtaining necessary permits or permissions before carrying out any work.
- Consider planting native species that are well-adapted to the local climate and require less maintenance.
- Avoid damaging tree roots or compacting soil around trees, as this can damage the root system and limit nutrient uptake.
Make sure to check if a tree is protected or not before you trim or remove it
Before doing any tree removal or pruning work, it’s essential to check if the tree is protected under a Vegetation Protection Order (VPO). VPOs are issued by local councils to protect trees that are significant to the community or environment. Removing or damaging a tree protected under a VPO can result in hefty fines.
Get started with proper tree maintenance on your property today
Tree maintenance is crucial for property owners and body corporates to fulfil their legal obligations and ensure the safety of their property. Regular inspections, pruning, and removal of dead or diseased trees are essential to prevent potential hazards and promote the health of the surrounding environment. By taking proper care of trees, property owners not only fulfil their legal obligations but also contribute to the beauty and health of the surrounding environment.
Contact us today if you require specialist knowledge and experienced arborists to help you maintain trees on your property. Our friendly team here at A-Local Tree Service will be more than happy to help.
