You are here: Home Water, Waste & Environment Tree Management

Tree Management

Townsville City Council is committed to the preservation, management, enhancement and maintenance of public trees on Council controlled land within the Townsville local government area. Council recognises the value and important role of trees in the urban landscape. In managing Townsville’s public tree network, Council must balance various risks against the social, economic and environmental benefits public trees can provide.

Across Townsville’s public tree network, Council’s activities and resources shall be prioritised based upon the following order of principles:

  • manage risks to public safety
  • manage risks to property or infrastructure
  • preserve and maintain the health and structural soundness of Townsville’s public tree network including its significant and highly significant public trees
  • improve Townsville’s image, liveability and the well-being of the community by prioritising the integration of public trees within the urban landscape
  • support the health of Townsville’s ecosystems through investment in its public tree network.

For more information, please read:

Removal of Public Trees

Removal of public trees on Council controlled land is not considered by Council if the tree is:

  • considered healthy and structurally sound
  • affected by termites but is structurally sound
  • obstructing private views
  • causing minor allergenic or irritant responses
  • part of unjustified claims of damage to infrastructure from tree root activity
  • able to be retained through reasonable design solutions
  • obstructing advertising signage
  • shading solar installations or other areas of private property
  • a source of leaf, fruit and/or debris drop
  • an animal roost, increasing the prevalence of animal droppings or noise
  • disliked or does not meet personal aesthetic preferences.

Before submitting an application, please also note that the application will be declined if you have not submitted all required information and photographs.

If you are ready to apply for the removal of a tree on Council, you may:

Benefits of Trees

Trees have a significant value to the Council, the community and Townsville visitors, providing:

  • a cooling effect that can reduce energy consumption and Townsville’s carbon footprint
  • screening for buildings, blending structures into the natural landscape
  • a means for reducing soil erosion and decreasing flooding
  • a filter for wind
  • reduction of noise and air pollution
  • aesthetic appeal and economic health
  • community identity.