A CAPALABA developer faces hefty fines or possible court action after clearing koala trees from a property at Beenwerrin Crescent, Capalaba, on Wednesday.
Redland City Council officers were called to the 2096sq m site after neighbours complained trees at the back of the property were being removed illegally.
Work is prohibited until council has assessed and approved a development application.
Neighbour Glenn Hewton said a woman, who stood in front of one of the trees, was threatened before officers arrived on the scene.
They ordered property owner Brad Baker and an associate Paul McManus to stop pulling down the trees on the site, which is zoned urban residential and is to be sub-divided into three blocks.
Council started an investigation into the work, but is yet to decide on the appropriate course of action, which could include penalties on both landowner and contractor.
"Council is committed to protecting vegetation in the Redlands, particularly koala trees such as those present at this site and we will be doing everything we can to ensure the land-owner shows this same level of commitment," a council spokesman said.
"While the final outcome may still see some trees removed, it is important it is done correctly and in line with planning regulations."
A planning report by Baker Industries, submitted to council in December, said no significant vegetation would be removed and the majority of the trees were at the front of the block.
