Byron Shire Resident Convicted For Tree Removal

On Thursday 16 August 2007 in the Mullumbimby Local Court a Byron Shire resident was found guilty for the removal of ten Tallow Wood trees on a rural property located at Tyagarah.

The man was convicted for the criminal offence of development without consent and fined $7,500. He was also ordered to rehabilitate the site at a cost of $2000 and pay Councils legal costs of $660.

It was revealed in court that the trees were most likely cut down for the purpose of improving the view of the dwelling that the man was residing in at the time. During sentencing, Local Court Magistrate Jeff Linden indicated that this type of offence is a serious matter and such matters will be dealt with accordingly.

On the 21 December 2006 Council was successful in prosecuting a Byron Bay man for the removal of trees on a Council reserve with the intent of improving the views of a dwelling. On that occasion the man was fined $30,000 and ordered to pay Council $5,578 costs.

Ray Darney, Councils Director, Planning Development and Environmental Services said: "this conviction reinforces community expectations regarding protection of the environment. I am very pleased with the ongoing commitment and effort of Byron Shire Councils Compliance Team. I am confident that this decision and the decision of last December will be a deterrent to anyone who thinks they can get away with illegal tree removal".

Mayor Jan Barham said: "the illegal removal of trees in contravention of Councils Tree Preservation Order is taken seriously by Council and the broader community. This recent conviction will send a message that Council and the community are committed to protecting the environment".