What Is the 3-30-300 Rule in Melbourne?

Melbourne is known for its leafy streets and green suburbs, but urban development has made it harder to maintain tree cover. The 3-30-300 rule is a simple guideline used by councils and environmental planners to promote healthier, greener cities. It highlights how access to trees and green space improves wellbeing, biodiversity, and local climate resilience.

Here’s what the 3-30-300 rule means, why it matters for Melbourne homeowners, and how Dawson Tree Services can help you support a greener neighbourhood.

Understanding the 3-30-300 Rule

The concept was developed by urban forestry researcher Dr Cecil Konijnendijk. It outlines three measurable goals for green living:

• 3: Every person should be able to see at least three trees from their home.
• 30: Each neighbourhood should aim for 30 percent tree canopy cover.
• 300: Everyone should live within 300 metres of a public green space such as a park or reserve.

This model helps city planners create communities with cleaner air, cooler temperatures, and improved mental health outcomes — all of which are increasingly important in Melbourne’s changing climate.

How the Rule Applies to Melbourne

Melbourne councils have adopted similar principles in their urban forest strategies, setting canopy-cover targets to reduce heat and protect biodiversity. Homeowners play a vital role in achieving these goals by planting and caring for trees on private land.

Dawson Tree Services supports these efforts through professional arboriculture that keeps existing trees healthy and encourages responsible planting.

If you’re unsure which species best suit your area, explore our expert tree care articles & advice for practical guidance tailored to Melbourne conditions.

Why Tree Canopy Cover Matters

Tree canopy isn’t just about shade — it’s about creating liveable suburbs. A 30 percent canopy cover can lower local temperatures by several degrees during summer, reduce energy use, and filter pollutants from the air.

Maintaining a strong canopy also increases property value and supports urban wildlife. Learn more about sustainable approaches to managing vegetation in our sustainable tree management article.

Caring for Existing Trees

A healthy canopy depends on proper maintenance. Regular pruning, watering, and soil care help trees stay strong and safe in all weather.

Our qualified arborists provide professional tree inspections to detect early signs of disease or decay before they become hazards. We also handle structural pruning, cabling, and nutrient advice to extend tree life and maintain canopy health.

Removing Trees Responsibly

Sometimes, tree removal is unavoidable. Diseased or storm-damaged trees can compromise safety or obstruct new growth. When removal is required, our team carries out tree removal in Bayside and surrounding areas safely and in line with council regulations.

We recycle all green waste where possible, supporting Melbourne’s sustainability goals and keeping materials out of landfill.

How You Can Contribute to a Greener Melbourne

Every homeowner can play a part in meeting the 3-30-300 vision. Plant native species, maintain your existing trees, and consider how canopy growth can benefit your street. Even small gardens or courtyard trees can make a measurable difference in reducing heat and improving neighbourhood comfort.

Our areas we serve page lists the suburbs where Dawson Tree Services can help with planting, pruning, and long-term tree care.

Book an Urban Tree Consultation

If you’d like to understand how your property fits into the 3-30-300 rule, contact our experienced team for an on-site assessment. We’ll evaluate your canopy coverage, identify planting opportunities, and ensure all trees are managed safely and sustainably.

Book a consultation through our contact page today and join the movement towards a cooler, greener Melbourne.

Dawson Tree Services – Supporting Melbourne’s vision for greener, healthier suburbs.