Council introduces tree register nomination fee

Central Coast Council has introduced a charge of $250 for nominating a tree for the Council's Significant Tree Register.

Previously, there was no charge for nominations to the register, which could be made by community members.

Trees accepted onto the register received protection under Council planning provisions.

The new fee was set with the adoption of Council fees and charges for the 2020-21 financial year and at a special meeting on June 29.

Cr Louise Greenaway asked who paid the fee and called it an odd charge.

Planning director Mr Scott Cox said the person suggesting a tree be registered would pay the fee.

Under questioning, he was not sure what the fee had been in the past and took the question on notice.

Cr Greenaway said Council had resolved in August 2019 to expand the Significant Tree Register into the former Wyong area and to minimise the cost to ratepayers.

SOURCE:

Central Coast Council agenda 3.1, 29 Jun 2020