All current and intending home owners and builders should be aware of and take into account the following information in relation to their property or building.

Council's consent is to be obtained for the removal or pruning (e.g. crown thinning) of all trees which are over three (3) metres in height or which have a branch spread of three (3) metres in width.

Where a Development Consent and a Construction Certificate have been obtained, Council’s consent has automatically been given for the removal of those trees (within the subject property) located where the building work is to be carried out and up to three (3) metres from the external edge of footings and driveways. (Note: This applies to new construction only, in residential and rural areas of the City.).

If it is desired to remove or prune any trees located outside the three (3) metre building envelope described above, a separate application must be lodged for Council’s consideration. A separate application is not necessary if consent was sought and obtained to remove trees in conjunction with the development application for building work.

Where a Development Consent and Construction Certificate have not been obtained, Council will generally not approve an application to remove trees from vacant land, except where the trees may be diseased or present a significant risk to an adjoining property.

Council cannot approve any development works including the removal or pruning of any trees on neighbouring property without the consent of the tree owner(s). Applicants that are affected by overhanging limbs from neighbours’ trees can seek approval from Council to prune the tree to their fence line only. Consent from the owner in this case is not required.

Council does not offer tree inspection services.

• Tree Removal Application Form (PDF - 187kb)

Further information may be obtained by contacting Council’s Customer Service Centre on Tel: (02)4934 9700.