Can I report a tree removed on private property?

If you believe a protected or significant tree has been removed without the required permit, you can report it to the City of Melbourne and provide evidence; the council will assess whether enforcement action is required.

What happens after I make a report?

The council will record the complaint, inspect the site where practicable, and decide whether to issue notices, require remediation, or commence further enforcement; timelines vary by case and are not specified on the general guidance pages.

Do I need to preserve the stump or remains?

Yes—preserve the site, avoid further disturbances, and take dated photos to support any investigation.

Melbourne Tree Removal Bylaw - How to Report

Land Use and Zoning Victoria 3 Minutes Read · published February 11, 2026

In Melbourne, Victoria, removing protected, street or significant trees without permission can breach council bylaws and planning controls. This guide explains how to identify possible illegal tree removal, who enforces tree protections in the City of Melbourne, and the practical steps to report and follow up so the council can investigate.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City of Melbourne and its compliance teams investigate unauthorised removal or damage to trees on public and private land where local laws, planning permits or the Significant Tree Register apply. Specific fine amounts and penalty units are not specified on the cited council pages; see the linked official pages for details City of Melbourne trees information^[1] and the council contact/reporting page for enforcement pathways Report a problem to City of Melbourne^[2].

Enforcer: City of Melbourne compliance and parks teams, and authorised officers responsible for tree enforcement.
Inspection: the council will inspect reported sites and assess whether removal or damage breached local law, planning permits or protections.
Appeal/review: not specified on the cited page; check the council enforcement and review procedures on the linked pages.
Fines and monetary penalties: not specified on the cited council pages.
Non-monetary orders: the council may issue restoration orders, tree replacement, stop-work notices or commence court action depending on findings.

Keep photographic and dated evidence and avoid further disturbance of the site.

Applications & Forms

Permits are required to remove or prune certain trees in Melbourne; the council publishes guidance on when a permit is needed and how to apply. Specific application form names, application numbers, fees or lodgement steps are not specified on the general trees guidance page and should be confirmed on the council planning or permits section City of Melbourne trees information^[1].

If you suspect illegal removal, report it promptly to preserve evidence and allow timely inspection.

Reporting: what to include

Clear location: street address, nearest cross-street or GPS coordinates.
Photos and dates: before/after photos if available, or photographs showing stumps, machinery, or fresh disturbance.
Witness details: names and contact details if people observed the removal.
Ownership notes: indicate whether the tree was on public land (street/park) or private property.
Timing: when the removal or damage occurred or was first noticed.

Use the council's official report page to submit the information and attachments so the authorised officers can triage and investigate promptly. The council pages linked above show the official reporting route and contact details Report a problem to City of Melbourne^[2].

FAQ

Can I report a tree removed on private property?: If you believe a protected or significant tree has been removed without the required permit, you can report it to the City of Melbourne and provide evidence; the council will assess whether enforcement action is required.
What happens after I make a report?: The council will record the complaint, inspect the site where practicable, and decide whether to issue notices, require remediation, or commence further enforcement; timelines vary by case and are not specified on the general guidance pages.
Do I need to preserve the stump or remains?: Yes—preserve the site, avoid further disturbances, and take dated photos to support any investigation.

How-To

Document the site with clear photos and note the exact location and date.
Gather witness names or any contractor information visible at the scene.
Use the City of Melbourne online report form or contact the council to lodge a complaint with your evidence.^[2]
Keep records of your report reference and any council response or inspection notes.
If the council issues an order or penalty, follow instructions on how to respond or appeal as advised by council correspondence.

Key Takeaways

Report promptly with photos and precise location.
Preserve evidence and avoid further site disturbance.
The City of Melbourne enforces tree protections and will investigate reported breaches.