What is protected vegetation?
The value of trees and vegetation in the Redlands 
[PDF 890KB]
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Know your local eucalypts [PDF 1.3MB]
Vegetation may be protected separately or at the same time by Local Law, the Redlands Planning Scheme or State legislation.
Local Law 6 – Protection of Vegetation
This Local Law protects certain types of vegetation on private property. It does this through:
- a specifically declared Vegetation Protection Order (VPO) that protects specific vegetation on freehold land and is made by resolution of Council following the preparation of an expert report. A VPO identifies the vegetation to be protected and the criteria for its protection. A record is kept in the public register.
- the Redlands Planning Scheme where vegetation on land covered by the Habitat Protection Overlay, as well as, vegetation on land capable of subdivision and vegetation outside of a designated 'development area' (what used to be called a 'building envelope') is protected.
Almost all of certain types of vegetation within the Redlands is protected by these measures.
The penalties for damaging protected vegetation are severe. Even if you are sure you are entitled to clear vegetation, check first, by contacting a Council Officer on 3829 8943. We will tell you if you need to make an application. Fees apply from 1 July 2006.
Redlands Planning Scheme
Under the Integrated Planning Act 1997 (IPA), local government planning schemes are the required instrument for establishing the desired use of land and managing development. This frequently involves the protection of vegetation through zoning and overlays in conjunction with Local Law 6 – Protection of Vegetation and Subordinate Local Law 6 - Protection of Vegetation.
Read more about the Redlands Planning Scheme.
State legislation
The Vegetation Management Act 1999 (VMA) regulates clearing on freehold land. The Act, and associated mapping (which is periodically updated), distinguishes between remnant and regrowth, or non-remnant vegetation.
The Integrated Planning Act 1997 (IPA) is used to assess applications for clearing or developments that involve clearing.
Under the VMA, the penalties for damaging protected vegetation are severe - check first with the Environmental Protection Agency.
Regional
The SEQ Regional Plan Interim Guideline: Koalas and Development is a statutory instrument under IPA and specifies:
- koala conservation through development assessment; and
- advice for drafting and amending planning schemes to reflect koala conservation policies.
Refer to the document for advice about protected vegetation on your property.
SEQ Regional Plan Interim Guideline: Koalas and Development 
[PDF 15MB]