The 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Code of RFS, which came into action on August 1st 2014, has found a vehement critic in Pittwater Council, says Cayla Dengate on the website dailytelegraph.com.au. The Code allows residents of Pittwater, NSW and its surrounding areas the facility to clear trees and vegetation dangerously near their houses.
Minister in favour of Vegetation Clearing Code
Miss Dengate crisply puts that the State Environment Minister Rob Stokes is for the motion, suggesting that this Code will protect residents from the spread of Bushfire, which can be hugely destructive on its day. He is of the opinion that the Code should be in place, even if it helps people with ulterior motive.
The ulterior motive behind clearing trees
The ulterior motive discussed is about the supposition that people can use this regulation to clear trees and offer a non-obstructing view of their views in the guise of Bushfire protection. Pittwater accounts for 55% of the total zone slotted for the Code in action. Pittwater Mayor Jacqueline Townsend is coming out as a pretty harsh critic.
Vegetation clearing not for one and all
It needs to be noted though that you cannot cut trees on a whim, but only if you meet certain standards, even if you reside in the covered zone. You won’t be allowed to do so if you are living on an 18 degree slope or more or if your house is within 10 meters of a stream. The counter-point is that general people don’t have acute knowledge of the topography.
The regulation is a direct aftermath to the Great Bushfire Destruction in the Blue Mountains in October 2013. While there are many objecting people out here in Pittwater, some also feel that the Code sounds nothing but common sense.
You can read the original article here.
In my opinion, considering that Bushfire has often played havoc in and around Pittwater, the Code should very well have in place much before it came into being. Yes, it is true that some people may now radically cut trees to feed their motives, but then, foul-players can never be rooted out of existence.
Why the Vegetation Clearing Code is necessary
If you take into account the general Pittwater houses, you will note that many trees are planted perilously close to the buildings. Small plants are grown too close to each other for comfort. They tend to give a raw opening to bushfires on dry and breezy days. Thus, a law to allow removal of such trees such as the 10/50 code should command respect, as this should provide eminent Bushfire protection.
Ideally, you should however consult a professional before cutting or pruning trees and vegetation. This should be someone who has experience in home design in bushfire-prone areas and general council and bushfire safety rules. If you are located in Sydney’s northern beaches and you are contemplating a home renovation on a bushfire-prone property feel free to contact me. I will be happy to assist.
What are your thoughts on the new 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Code? Does it invite abuse or is it going to save homes and lives?
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