Fines for vandalising trees in Perth's CBD could soon increase from $500 to $5000

Vandals defacing trees in Perth’s CBD could soon be slapped with a $5000 fine after Lord mayor Basil Zempilas described inner-city tree vandalism as becoming “out of hand”.

The City of Perth council is set to vote on whether to review two local laws — Local Government Property Local Law 2005 and Thoroughfares and Public Places Local Law 2017 — which, if changed, could increase the fine for tree-related offences from $500 to $5000.

The maximum penalty for tree-related crime in the CBD is currently $500 and is comparable to other metropolitan local governments.

According to a staff report, 45 of the 50 trees removed from the Perth CBD in 2023 were due to vandalism.

In August last year CCTV captured a man damaging about 100 trees planted as part of the Roe Street Enhancement Project.

Since January 2024, 23 more trees have been removed due to vandalism.

The average cost to replace and maintain a new tree is $6900.

Speaking before Tuesday night’s council briefing, Lord mayor Basil Zempilas told PerthNow tree vandalism was “almost out of hand”.

“It’s hard to know what goes through people’s minds when they walk past a tree or decide to swing from a branch, or snap a branch, or kip the trunk, or knock over a new sapling, or stomp on a new shrub that’s been planted ... what we do know is that it’s almost out of hand,” he said.

“We know that the tree canopy of our city needs urgent care and attention, (and) it’s getting it.

“But every time we plant a tree then have to go through this exercise of replacing 10 or 15 per cent of them, it’s just ridiculous and counterproductive so it’s time that we sent a stronger message.”

According to a staff report, tree vandalism typically occurs on “active night-economy pedestrian routes” which link hospitality venues and public transport.

“We accept and understand we’re an entertainment precinct and people are going to go out and have a good time,” Mr Zempilas said.

“Sometimes that means they’re going to have a few drinks, or for whatever reason, they’re going to have some form of frustration.

“But the very clear message from us is if you get drunk or can’t behave yourself or can’t control yourself, don’t take it out on the trees in the City of Perth.

“It is unacceptable ... and I think if we have the penalties to match, we can send a message that supports the view which is if you get caught, you’re going to get a significant fine.”

A decision will be made next Tuesday night’s council meeting.

Mr Zempilas confirmed he would vote in support of the recommendation to review the local laws.