At Melbourne Water, we manage trees and vegetation at our reservoirs, along pipe tracks and across our catchments.
Trees contribute to a wide range of services, including:
- Liveability services – amenity, urban cooling
- Cultural heritage
- Environmental stewardship – biodiversity, habitat, improves air and water quality
How do we manage the trees on our land
We manage trees through a priority lens, considering safety, safe access and egress to private properties, as well as maintaining access to our assets.
Inspections are carried out on trees on Melbourne Water land, by suitably qualified employees or arborist as required using a risk-based approach, to monitor tree health and structure.
Can you trim a Melbourne Water tree overhanging into your property?
Under common law in Victoria, property owners have the right to trim any leaves or branches that enter or overhang their property (up to the boundary line) at their own cost. It is the property owners' responsibility to ensure they get any necessary permits that may be required. Owners must not enter a locked Melbourne Water site to trim any leaves or branches. Undertake any works with care, as you would be liable for any damages caused to Melbourne Water’s trees while performing any maintenance.
Report a tree in need of maintenance
If you identify a tree that needs attention, please call us on 131 722.