The City of Kalamunda is inviting the community to have their say on a new draft planning policy designed to protect and enhance tree canopy across the district.

The Draft Local Planning Policy 33 – Future Forest is now open for public comment. This updated policy represents a more balanced, practical and community-driven approach to managing trees through development and subdivision processes.

Mayor Margaret Thomas said the new policy is about planning smarter for a greener future—without making life harder for residents.

“This policy doesn’t stop people from managing their properties. It’s about encouraging a culture of replanting and protection that works with development, not against it,” she said.

The Future Forest Policy replaces the previously revoked Tree Retention Policy and responds to feedback from residents, developers and elected members. It introduces clearer exemptions for residential landowners, refines the definition of a “tree worthy of retention”, and promotes increased canopy coverage through replacement planting or offsets.

Community members are encouraged to get involved during the 60-day consultation period, which runs from Friday 29 August 2025 until Friday 24 October 2025. The City is delivering a variety of engagement opportunities to ensure as many people as possible can participate.

The draft policy is available to view in the Document Library. Hard copies also available at the Administration Centre and Libraries.

Have your say

For any enquiries or comment, complete the below form or contact the Statutory Planning Team via:

Email: enquiries@kalamunda.wa.gov.au
Post: PO Box 42, Kalamunda WA 6926
In Person: 2 Railway Road, Kalamunda (Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm)

Submissions close: 5pm AWST Friday 24 October 2025