Tree Management

Townsville City Council is committed to the preservation, management, enhancement and maintenance of public trees on Council controlled land within the Townsville local government area. Council recognises the value and important role of trees in the urban landscape. In managing Townsville’s public tree network, Council must balance various risks against the social, economic and environmental benefits public trees can provide.

Across Townsville’s public tree network, Council’s activities and resources shall be prioritised based upon the following order of principles:

• manage risks to public safety
• manage risks to property or infrastructure
• preserve and maintain the health and structural soundness of Townsville’s public tree network including its significant and highly significant public trees
• improve Townsville’s image, liveability and the well-being of the community by prioritising the integration of public trees within the urban landscape
• support the health of Townsville’s ecosystems through investment in its public tree network.

For more information, please read:

Benefits of Trees

Trees have a significant value to the Council, the community and Townsville visitors, providing:

• a cooling effect that can reduce energy consumption and Townsville’s carbon footprint
• screening for buildings, blending structures into the natural landscape
• a means for reducing soil erosion and decreasing flooding
• a filter for wind
• reduction of noise and air pollution
• aesthetic appeal and economic health
• community identity.

Protecting our Trees

Townsville's street trees play an important role in creating cooler, greener and more liveable neighbourhoods. They provide shade, improve streetscapes, support local biodiversity and contribute to the health and wellbeing of our community.

While many residents place grass clippings, leaves and other green waste around the base of trees with good intentions, this practice can cause significant harm to tree health. Excessive grass clippings can trap moisture around the trunk and root zone, creating conditions that encourage fungal disease, pest activity and root decay. Over time, this can weaken trees and impact their long-term health.

What should I do with my grass clippings?

Instead of placing grass clippings around Council-managed trees, residents are encouraged to:

• Take excess green waste to one of Council's free waste transfer stations.
• Compost suitable green waste at home where appropriate.

What should I avoid?

Please do not:

• Pile grass clippings or green waste around the trunk of a tree.
• Dump lawn clippings or green waste in parks, nature strips or other public spaces.