FAQs

The ‘urban heat island effect’ is localised warming in urban areas due to:

• the large amounts of hard surfaces like paving or concrete, which more readily absorb and store heat when compared to vegetation
• the large amounts of heat-absorbing, solid dark coloured surfaces like roads, large buildings or carparks
• human heat production (for example from car engines or air conditioners).

There are many social, economic, environmental, public health and social benefits of tree canopies in urban areas, highlighted in the Cool Towns plan. The focus and priority of the program is the expansion of healthy tree canopy within urban areas.

Appropriate space needs to be provided for tree canopy and root systems. In public urban areas, trees compete for space overhead with power lines, commercial signage or building awnings. Competition for space is also at ground level with footpaths, roads or car parking spaces and underground with stormwater pipes, sewer pipes, and cables.

We can not plant trees underneath powerlines, or where stormwater pipes, sewer pipes or cables are present.

The key is planting the right tree, in the right place, while aiming to maximise potential canopy and therefore shade. 

Council’s aim is to plant species of trees that are the largest-canopy-growing and longest-lived species possible for the given growing conditions and site constraints taking into consideration such issues as soils, climate, physical access, existing vegetation, heritage, character/aesthetics, scenic views and solar access.

Council is responsible for trees on public land, parks, gardens, street roadsides and natures strips. To find out more, or to request an assessment, visit our information on Trees on Public Land or Trees on Private Land.