$20,000 fine as Council sounds warning over illegal tree clearing

The Illegal removal of five mature trees has cost a Noosa Heads property owner and a local contractor more than $20,000 in fines.

Noosa Council says the hefty prosecution serves as a warning to anyone considering removing trees without permission to expect a similar penalty.

“This has been a costly mistake for the property owner and their contractor and it’s a salient reminder to the community that Council takes illegal tree-clearing offences very seriously,” says Development Assessment Manager Kerri Coyle.

In addition to the fines, Council has ordered the Allambi Rise property owner to replant the cleared area with mature replacement trees.

“Council won’t hesitate to take legal action to protect trees and other vegetation, which contribute significantly to the unique character and biodiversity of the shire,” Ms Coyle said.

“On this occasion the removal of five large eucalypts at the rear of the Allambi Rise property has created a break in the green backdrop of Noosa Hill, which the Noosa Plan seeks to preserve.

“The trees were also helping to stabilise sloping land, which is subject to slippage.”

Ms Coyle said landowners should check with Council on (07) 5329 6500 before removing trees.

Further information about tree clearing, plus details on exempted and protected vegetation, is also available from Council’s website.

12 February 2018