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Cutting or felling street trees is illegal

Trees reduce the effects of climate change by absorbing air pollutants and act as a natural habitat for animals.

JOHANNESBURG City Parks and Zoo warns residents to refrain from cutting street trees, this after a Mondeor resident was reported to have illegally felled healthy street trees on the sidewalk adjacent to his home.

City Parks and Zoo has been working towards greening the City of Johannesburg by planting established street trees. The organisation has however noted that residents are illegally removing and vandalising trees in and around Johannesburg.

“Our trees are vital to our environment and bring beauty to our city. They reduce the effects of climate change by absorbing air pollutants and act as a natural habitat for many animals. Street trees are the property of the City of Johannesburg and are protected by strict by-laws. City Parks is inundated with reports of illegal tree felling mainly during autumn. The seasonal falling of leaves is a natural phenomenon; sadly residents are removing trees at their own discretion. Due to weather conditions, leaves fall into properties, gutters and swimming pools; residents are advised to cover their pools during autumn to stop falling leaves from damaging water pumps and such,” said Clr Mahlomola Kekana.

According to Jenny Moodley, the spokesperson of Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo, park rangers have been deployed and JMPD has been alerted to the problem.

“We urge residents and communities to refrain from illegally removing and felling trees. Failing to comply will result in legal action and hefty fines being imposed. Transgressors will also be obliged to replace trees and will be liable to replant street trees of the same size, species and value,” Clr Kekana concluded. Transgressors will be liable for the replacement costs of established trees which can vary between R15 000 and R50 000.

Reports of illegal tree removals and requests to prune or fell trees, should be directed to trees@jhbcityparks.com or Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo on 011 712 6600. Alternatively contact Joburg Connect on 011 375 5555.

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