A property owner in Langwarrin has been fined $15,000 for illegal vegetation removal following a successful prosecution by Frankston City Council.
The decision was handed down in Frankston Magistrates Court following an extensive investigation by Council officers into removal of vegetation and other offences at a property on McClelland Drive.
The property owner was ordered to pay an additional $3,946 to cover the majority of Council’s legal costs.
The Magistrate found the landowner to be in breach of offences including removal of protected vegetation, the use of the land as a store, and buildings and works without the required permits.
Councillor Cherie Wanat, representing Elisabeth Murdoch ward, said the enforcement proceedings and subsequent court finding sent a strong message that there are serious consequences for those undertaking any unlawful destruction of the natural environment in Frankston City.
“Our community places immense value on green spaces and urban canopy, not just in ‘leafy Langwarrin’ but the municipality as whole. The environmental, aesthetic and wellbeing benefits that trees and natural vegetation provide need to be adequately protected.”
“Our commitment to enhance and protect Frankston City’s valued environment is clear. If property owners remove or destroy vegetation without the proper permissions, Council will investigate and take appropriate action.”
Under the Frankston Planning Scheme, landowners must obtain Council approval for a particular use or development on a property.
