“Dodgy tree-lopping gangs” are putting Grovedale and Rippleside residents at risk of serious fines or damage to their homes, Geelong’s council has warned.
Council had received reports of would-be arborists offering residents on the spot tree cutting services for cash, its planning director Gareth Smith said.
“It is important that residents are alert to the fact that these groups are often operating without the correct permits and insurances in place.
“Residents may be held liable for the actions of these operators.”
In locations across the greater Geelong planning permits are required to remove trees and other vegetation.
Property owners who agreed to the work are at risk of receiving serious penalties from council, Mr Smith said.
Council urged residents approached by anyone offering tree lopping services to request clear identification, including address and contact details, and a copy of their liability insurance.
Owners should request a copy of qualifications (minimum level 3 arborist) and ensure any necessary planning permit is in place prior to removal, council advised.
“Don’t take the word of the tree lopper. Make sure you get a copy,” a City Hall spokesperson said.
“If they claim to be authorised contractor for the City of Greater Geelong, request to see written authorisation.”
City of Greater Geelong workers did not approach residents to remove trees on private land, the spokesperson warned.
They also cautioned residents to be wary of requests for cash payments and offers to remove trees on the spot.
“Most reputable companies will need about 1-3 weeks before they can remove trees after being contracted.”
The unscrupulous operators were reportedly travelling across Victoria, the spokesperson said.
“So far we’re aware of incidents in Rippleside and Grovedale.”
They urged any residents concerned about restrictions or planning scheme provisions on their property to phone council’s statutory planning team on 5272 4456.
