Trees & Infrastructure

Tree growth is typically influenced by below-ground conditions. Tree roots are opportunistic and will proliferate wherever moisture, aeration, nutrition, and soil structure support growth.

Trees can contribute to infrastructure damage directly, by exerting pressure on a structure, and indirectly, through altering the soil moisture in the area adjacent to a structure. Often there are multiple factors contributing to infrastructure damage and are seldom associated with tree root growth alone. For this reason, claims of indirect tree root damage must be accurately investigated.

Tree roots can sometimes inadvertently impact sewer and stormwater pipes. It is important to establish the cause of the problem and who is responsible for rectifying it. Leaking pipes (due to poor construction, old earthenware, cracked and faulty joints and degradation) can create a moisture gradient that encourages tree root growth in the direction of the pipe.

All concerns that a Council managed tree is contributing to infrastructure damage will be investigated by Hobsons Bay City Council. Please notify Council of your concerns by completing a Tree Service Request or by contacting our Customer Service Team on 1300 179 944. Depending on the situation, you may be required to submit a structural engineer’s report that verifies the concern.

When reviewing a claim that a tree is contributing to infrastructure damage, Council will explore all viable options to retain the tree before considering removal. 

Trees and infrastructure FAQ