The draft policy, endorsed by Council for advertising at its July meeting, aims to ensure that as the City continues to grow and develop, it does so in a way that protects the natural environment, supports liveable neighbourhoods, and reflects the aspirations of local residents.

Mayor Margaret Thomas said the new policy is a major step forward in responding to community feedback and finding the right balance between development and environmental care.

“This policy doesn’t stop people from looking after their gardens or making improvements to their homes,” she said. “What it does is provide a more thoughtful, practical and transparent framework for protecting and replacing trees in a way that makes sense for our community.”

Mayor Thomas explained that the Future Forest Policy is a direct response to concerns raised about the City’s previous Tree Retention Policy, which was revoked in 2024. Since then, the City has worked closely with Councillors and planning experts to develop a simpler, fairer and more targeted approach.

“This new policy is about canopy cover—not complexity. It focuses on areas of real planning impact, like subdivisions and developments, and offers broader exemptions for residential landowners,” she said. “It encourages replanting and tree retention where it’s reasonable to do so, but also recognises the practical needs of property owners.”

The City is encouraging broad community participation in the consultation process, with a wide range of opportunities available to learn more and provide feedback. Residents can visit the City’s online engagement platform to view the draft policy, complete a survey, or lodge a formal submission. Printed copies of the policy and supporting materials are also available at the City’s Administration Centre and public libraries.

To increase visibility and engagement, the City is also rolling out a series of events and activities during the consultation period. This includes a live online Q&A with planning staff, an on-demand video briefing with the City’s subject matter expert, and a community pop-up schedule across key local centres. In a unique initiative aimed at inspiring younger residents, local primary schools will also be invited to take part in a drawing competition themed around the trees of the future.

“This is about giving everyone—from seasoned developers to passionate young tree lovers—a genuine opportunity to shape how we manage our shared environment,” she said. “It’s a policy with long-term benefits, and it’s important we hear a broad range of voices before finalising it,” Mayor Thomas said.

Public consultation on the Future Forest Policy is open until 5pm Friday 24 October 2025. For more information or to have your say, visit Engage.Kalamunda.wa.gov.au/FutureForest.

For more information visit www.kalamunda.wa.gov.au or phone the City of Kalamunda on 9257 9999 or email enquiries@kalamunda.wa.gov.au. 

Have Your Say

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Future Forest Policy?
A: It’s a proposed Local Planning Policy designed to protect and enhance our urban tree canopy, especially during new developments or subdivisions.

Q: Does this affect my backyard tree?
A: Not unless you’re building or subdividing. Most regular residential gardening or maintenance is exempt.

Q: What’s changed from the old Tree Retention Policy?
A: This version is simpler, fairer, and includes more exemptions for residential landowners. It focuses on achieving tree canopy, not just protecting individual trees.

Q: What if I remove a tree without permission?
A: You may need to pay a penalty and replace the tree, depending on the circumstances.

Q: How can I have my say?
A: Visit Engage.Kalamunda.wa.gov.au/FutureForest to complete the survey, attend a drop-in session, or join one of our online forums.