Regulated and Significant Trees in South Australia
Big Changes to South Australia’s Regulated and Significant Tree Rules
Developing has just got a lot more difficult for many areas of South Australia and Adelaide which are affected by the Regulated and Significant Tree legislation. Changes gazetted overnight tighten the screws significantly on tree protections and are sure to cause headaches for developers and property owners. See our analysis of the changes below and why you may need a planning and development consultant on your next project.
Regulated Tree Changes
Trees are now considered to be regulated if they have a trunk circumference above 1 metre (measured 1 metre above natural ground level). Previously this was 2 metres trunk circumference and as a result will capture thousands of trees which were previously unprotected. Multiple trunk trees with an average trunk circumference of 310mm will also be regulated under the new rules. To remove or damage a regulated tree you must apply for a development approval via Plan SA.
Significant Tree Changes
Significant Trees are more heavily protected than regulated trees and in the past required a 3 metre trunk circumference (1 metre above natural ground level) in order to be classified as a significant tree. This has reduced to 2 metres. Generally these trees are not able to be removed unless there is a danger of imminent failure through failing tree health. Healthy significant trees are very difficult to remove in order to allow new development.
Exemption Changes
Changes to the exemption rules have also been applied as part of the new legislation. This includes if a tree is located in close proximity to a dwelling or swimming pool. Previously, an exemption applied for most regulated trees if it was located within 10 metres of a dwelling or swimming pool. This has now been amended to 3 metres. There has also been a change to the trees which are excluded from this rule and now excludes any Willow Myrtle, Eucalyptus, Angophora or Corymbia.
If you are concerned that the new rules around regulated and significant trees in South Australia affect your property get in touch. We can run through the changes in more detail and ensure you fully understand how the changes may affect your aspirations for development. Our team of arborists are ready to help!
To follow along and find out more about planning issues, hear client stories or learn more about the development process make sure to follow any of our social media channels to stay updated. We are waiting for your call for assistance on any project requiring a planning and development consultant.
