Georges River Council is investigating the vandalism of a number of trees in Boudnary Reserve, Peakhurst.

Tree vandals have attacked a number of trees in Boundary Reserve, Peakhurst.

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Georges River Council is investigating the incident, and vandalism banners will be installed on-site for a minimum period of 12 months. These works are expected to be completed in the coming weeks.

The council will also undertake replacement planting to offset the loss of canopy cover and the important habitat previously provided by these trees.

Under Georges River Council's Tree Management Policy, any work carried out on trees without approval will be dealt with in accordance with the relevant legislation and the council's Enforcement Policy.

This may result in a Penalty Notice or legal action through either the Local Court or the Land and Environment Court against all parties involved.

Penalties vary depending on the severity of the offence. Penalties can be up to a maximum of $5 million for an offence under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

In dealing with vandalised trees, the council will reduce any risk the tree may pose to public safety.

However, the council will not remove the tree.

If a public tree is found or suspected to have died as a result of vandalism, the council will undertake reduction of the tree to reduce any risk associated with tree parts falling, however, the structural scaffolding of the tree will be left in place for as long as the tree remains a low risk.

The tree will be registered on the council's Tree Vandalism Database and an annual inspection will be undertaken.

Depending on the severity of the incident, the council will consider the installation of signage informing the community of the vandalism and the installation of banners within the vandalised trees for a period no less than 12 months or until the area has revegetated or recovered.