Trees


We are responsible for the management of over 820,000 trees on Canberra’s urban public land, and the protection of many trees on leased land. Maintaining these makes Canberra more liveable – for now and the future.

Healthy trees planted in the right location can cool streets, increase property values, improve health and wellbeing, increase wildlife diversity, improve water quality and contribute to friendlier and safer neighbourhoods.

Trees on public land

We manage and maintain trees on suburban streets, along major roads, at local shopping centres and in parks and open space areas in Canberra.

Trees on private land

Canberrans have rights and responsibilities when it comes to maintaining the trees on their property.

Tree protection laws

Large and significant trees are protected by law to ensure the future of our trees.

Tree management plans and tree bonds

Tree management plans and tree bonds prevent damage to protected trees while work is underway.

ACT tree register

The ACT tree register identifies and protects trees of exceptional value.

Urban Forest Strategy

The Urban Forest Strategy guides how we grow and manage our trees.

Tree canopy cover

We aim to have 30% of our urban environment covered by a tree canopy by 2045.

Trees and development

All development, driveway and building applications must include a tree management plan if work may impact a protected tree.

Tree programs, events and initiatives

Find out more about what's happening in Canberra to celebrate trees.

More information

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region. We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region.

To see how we are building stronger relationships with the Traditional Custodians of the ACT view the Reconciliation Action Plan.