Native Vegetation
Native vegetation plays a vital role in the health and prosperity of South Australia's ecosystems, communities and natural resource-based industries. Native vegetation refers to any naturally occurring local plant species that are indigenous to South Australia, from small ground covers and native grasses to large trees and water plants.
The Native Vegetation Act 1991 ensures that areas of high conservation value are protected and that minor clearance is subject to a thorough assessment process. You must apply for approval through the Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources (DEWNR) before performing any activity that could cause substantial damage to native plants. This also applies to dead trees that may provide habitat for animals.
These activities include but are not limited to:
- the cutting down, destruction or removal of whole plants
- the removal of branches, limbs, stems or trunks (including brush cutting and woodcutting)
- burning
- poisoning
- slashing of understorey
- drainage and reclamation of wetlands
- grazing by animals (in some circumstances).
For further information on managing native vegetation and clearance applications contact DEWNR(link) http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/managing-natural-resources/native-vegetation on (08) 8735 1177.
To report any unauthorised clearance, contact the Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources Compliance Unit (link) http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/managing-natural-resources/Native_vegetation/Managing_native_vegetation/Reporting_unauthorised_clearance on (08) 8124 4914 or by emailing nvcompliance@sa.gov.au
Helpful Fact Sheets
Preparing for a bushfire
Fencing fact sheet
Managing Native Vegetation