A Tallarook landowner has been fined $20,000 and ordered to pay $3111.05 in costs after pleading guilty to unlawfully removing more than 160 native trees without planning approval.
The trees were cut down on or around May 16. The matter was heard in Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court on Monday, December 8.
The accused, who had no prior criminal history, entered an early guilty plea to a single charge of removing native vegetation in contravention of clause 52.17 1 of the Mitchell Shire Planning Scheme.
The court was told the accused had cooperated fully with council during the investigation and intended to enter into a Section 173 agreement with it to support remediation of the land where possible.
Judicial Registrar Eales found the charge proven and imposed the penalty without conviction, noting that deterrence remains a key consideration in cases involving unlawful clearing. The maximum penalty for this type of offence is up to $200,000.
Mitchell Shire Council CEO Mary Agostino said the outcome reinforces the seriousness of removing native vegetation without approval.
“Native vegetation plays a vital role in our local environment, particularly in rural areas like Tallarook,” she said.
“Council is committed to protecting these landscapes and working with landowners so they understand their responsibilities under the planning scheme.