Council has adopted an updated Tree and Vegetation Management Policy to provide greater clarity around tree planting projects on Council land and strengthen collaboration with community groups and residents.

The updated policy was endorsed at Council’s meeting on 10 August 2026, following a review requested through a Motion on Notice presented by Cr Michael O’Connell at the 8 July 2026 Council meeting.

The review was undertaken with the intent of providing clearer guidance around street tree planting projects undertaken on Council land, while strengthening support and cooperation between community groups, residents and Council.

The Policy provides a guiding framework for the planting, maintenance, conservation and removal of trees and vegetation on Council land, including parks, reserves, urban streets and rural roads.

Key updates include clarification of Council’s responsibilities for tree planting projects, including approved planting locations and species in accordance with established tree planting plans.

The Policy outlines Council’s ongoing responsibilities for the management and maintenance of trees on Council land.

A clear process has been established for managing requests, concerns and proposed variations to approved tree planting plans, providing greater consistency and transparency for community-led projects.

The Policy has been expanded to cover the effective management of vegetation on Council land more broadly, with the title updated from the Tree Management Policy to the Tree and Vegetation Management Policy to reflect its broader scope.

The updated Policy will help provide a consistent approach to managing Council’s trees and vegetation while recognising the important environmental, social and amenity benefits they provide to the Yorke Peninsula community.