Mossel Bay Municipality News

MEDIA RELEASE: GROW THE ENVIRONMENT - STICK WITH THE TREE POLICY

Date: Oct 24, 2022

During the past weeks, several incidents have been reported during which trees were maliciously damaged. The Mossel Bay Municipality has a tree policy that gives useful guidelines to residents. The policy came into affect in April 2021.

 The full policy is included here, however take note of the general comments below:

• All requests and/or complaints shall be considered only if addressed in writing to the Director, who will copy such to the Municipal Manager for information.
• Trees shall not be removed simply because they allegedly obstruct a view, drop leaves, drop flowers, fruit, seedpods, seeds, ooze gum or because of any other similar complaint, but the department may prune such trees to alleviate the problem.
• In cases where a tree from a private property falls onto municipal property and creates an obstruction or an emergency situation, the obstruction will be cleared by the department.
• Trees on private property damaged or blown over during storms or for other reasons, will only be cut to clear roads and pavements and the removal of the debris will remain the responsibility of the resident.
• The municipality shall pay a reward as determined by the Council from time to time, for information leading to the conviction of persons who damaged or destroyed trees.
• Anyone removing a tree without permission or in contrast with stipulated instructions in this policy as well as wilfully damages a tree shall be charged for the replacement cost and value of the tree and may be prosecuted.

Residents often have questions regarding preferred trees to be planted in Mossel Bay. A useful list, is included in the policy. The Mossel Bay Municipality is driving a GROW strategy which includes a strong focus on greening the town. Therefore, the municipality urges residents to support this drive within the boundaries of the tree policy.

For any information regarding the tree policy, call 044 606 5000 and speak to the parks department in die Directorate of Community Services or send an email to admin@mosselbay.gov.za