Hepburn Shire mayor Janine Booth said the register aimed to preserve the shire's leafy character, cultural heritage, history and biological diversity.

"Nominations for the register are now open and council encourages all residents to help us identify those trees on both private and public land with which the community has a special connection, or which stand out in the landscape," Cr Booth said.

"The register will result in the collection of important data in preparation for the development of a Planning Scheme overlay amendment.

"Our council plan clearly established that environmental matters and biodiversity are important for Hepburn Shire residents and visitors.

"It is important that we provide for the long-term protection of our significant trees, both native and ornamental, through this register.

"Under the guidelines for the register, significant trees or groups of trees include indigenous and introduced species showing outstanding characteristics such as size, shape and history that set them apart from surrounding trees."

Nominations for the register close June 30. Forms are available from the council's website at the URL hepburnshire.com.au and from council offices.

For further information, phone the planning manager Justin Fiddes on 5321 6458.