- Urban Forestry tree protection by-law was passed by council on 23 September 2026
- Policies are sabotaged by poor implementation
- DA urges immediate implementation of structural priorities
The DA in the City of Tshwane supported the historic passing of the Urban Forestry tree protection by-law in council on 23 September in council.
While we proudly champion this crucial step toward safeguarding our capital’s green canopy for future generations, we firmly maintain that a by-law is only as strong as its enforcement.
We urge the City of Tshwane to urgently heed the critical oversight comments raised by the Chief Audit Executive and the Regional Operations and Coordination (ROC) Department.
Without addressing these foundational operational needs, this piece of legislation risks becoming a paper tiger.
To ensure the success of this by-law, the DA urges immediate implementation of the following structural priorities:
- A regular tree maintenance plan: The City must transition from reactive management to a proactive, scheduled maintenance program in all regions.
- Adequate staff and equipment: A severe lack of specialised tools (cherry-pickers and chainsaws) and personnel will cripple the policy.
Budgetary alignment is needed to resource the frontline workers protecting our trees.
- Clear departmental mandates: The City must clarify exactly which department will be appointed and trained to issue fines. Confusion over jurisdiction will only breed lawlessness.
Crucially, a glaring accountability loophole remains unaddressed.
If a transgressor has no legal documentation or verifiable address, a municipal fine is completely unenforceable. By failing to establish an identity verification protocol for those off the grid, the City is creating an immediate loophole for lawlessness. Fines cannot deter environmental destruction if the system cannot trace the individuals committing the offense.
We demand an immediate timeline from the ANC-led city administration on resourcing this by-law, and we promise aggressive committee oversight to ensure that every loophole is closed and our urban forest is truly protected.
In line with our Manifesto 2026, if elected to govern, we will prioritise the maintenance of ecosystems by appointing environmental health officers to strictly enforce municipal by-laws.
Well-maintained environments attract investors and create jobs, strengthening the local economy.
We will not allow a good policy to be sabotaged by poor implementation or accountability blind spots.