Vegetation management - Council projects

Vegetation management, including removal, may be necessary for infrastructure projects. Council is committed to ensuring these actions are responsible, transparent, and only carried out as a last resort when no alternatives exist.

Infrastructure projects are essential works, such as building and maintaining roads, bridges, utilities, and public spaces that support daily life. Vegetation may need to be cleared to ensure safety, improve functionality, and protect the environment. Here are some examples of when vegetation clearing is required:

• Building roads and bridges - clearing space for new roads, bridges, and public transport routes.
• Installing utilities - removing trees and shrubs to install essential services like water, sewage, gas, and electricity.
• Ensuring public safety - clearing overgrown areas to improve visibility and safety along roads and pathways.
• Access for construction - providing safe work zones for construction equipment and materials needed for public works.
• Disaster management - creating firebreaks to prevent wildfires and ensuring safe evacuation routes.
• Upgrading parks - removing old or unhealthy trees to improve parks, playgrounds, and sports facilities.
• Flood prevention - clearing vegetation to improve drainage and reduce flooding risk in at-risk areas.
• Restoring the environment - removing invasive plants and replanting native species to restore natural habitats.
• Maintaining infrastructure - regularly clearing vegetation around roads and utilities to keep them safe and operational.

Trees in parks and streets

Trees in parks, streets, and other council areas are managed separately from those involved in infrastructure projects. These trees are cared for primarily to ensure public health and safety.

For information on how trees in parks and streets are cared for see Trees on Council land.

Minimising impact

To minimise environmental impact, Council implements several mitigation measures:

• Fauna spotters - qualified fauna spotters relocate wildlife safely before clearing.
• Habitat preservation - efforts are made to preserve and protect the surrounding habitats during clearing.
• Minimised disturbance -  strategies are developed to limit clearing to what is necessary.
• Offsetting replanting  - more on this below.

Offsetting and replanting

Redland City Council is committed to offsetting any vegetation removal through replanting initiatives. For every tree removed, new trees are planted to restore the ecological balance. These efforts include:

• Koala rehabilitation programs: Supporting koala habitat restoration and rehabilitation projects.
• Community planting events: Engaging the community in tree planting activities to promote environmental stewardship.

Get involved

Council encourages community members to stay informed and get involved in environmental initiatives within the community. Learn more about volunteering and local initiatives. 

Report sick or injured wildlife

To report sick or injured wildlife, please call (07) 3833 4031. For advice on how to rescue an animal, visit our Wildlife Rescue Service page before taking any action.

Frequently asked questions

Which vegetation management regulations must Council comply with? 

In Queensland, vegetation management is governed by stringent regulations to ensure environmental protection. Council adheres to all national and state laws, including:

• Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) Ensures activities do not harm nationally significant environments.
• National Environmental Protection Measures (NEPMs) Ensures compliance with national environmental standards.
• Environmental Protection Act 1994: Ensuring activities do not harm the environment.
• Nature Conservation Act 1992: Protects native wildlife and habitats.
• Vegetation Management Act 1999: Regulates clearing activities to maintain ecological balance. 

How does vegetation removal impact local wildlife?

Vegetation removal can disrupt local wildlife habitats and displace animals. To mitigate this, Council employs fauna spotters to safely relocate wildlife before clearing begins. It also implements habitat preservation strategies to protect the surrounding areas.

What are the long-term environmental benefits of replanting initiatives?

Replanting initiatives help restore ecological balance by replacing lost vegetation, supporting biodiversity, improving air quality, and enhancing the aesthetic and recreational value of public spaces. 

How does Council ensure compliance with environmental regulations during vegetation removal?

Council adheres to all relevant national and state regulations, conducts environmental impact assessments, and works with environmental experts. This is to ensure that all clearing activities meet legal requirements and minimise potential harm.

How are invasive species managed during vegetation removal?

Invasive species are removed during environmental restoration projects. Council uses methods such as selective clearing and targeted treatments to eliminate invasive species and promote native vegetation.

What specific measures are taken to protect koalas during vegetation removal?

Council supports koala rehabilitation programs, relocates koalas safely before clearing, and plants koala food trees. This is to ensure their habitat is preserved and enhanced.

How are replanting sites chosen for offset vegetation removal?

Replanting sites are selected based on ecological assessments, prioritising areas that will benefit most from reforestation. These areas contribute to biodiversity conservation and habitat connectivity.

How does vegetation removal contribute to flood mitigation?

Clearing vegetation in flood-prone areas improves drainage and reduces flooding risk by allowing water to flow more freely and preventing blockages that can exacerbate flood conditions.