Trees on Private Land

From 1 January 2021, we require lodgement of all Development Applications (DAs) and Complying Development Certificates (CDCs) to be via the NSW Planning Portal. This change is in line with the NSW Government's plan for all Councils to participate in their ePlanning platform for application lodgement. View our list of applications that can now only be lodged via the NSW Planning Portal.

Learn about clearing vegetation, pruning and removing trees on private land as well as how to manage neighbouring overhanging tree limbs.

I would like to clear vegetation on my residential block

Council encourages trimming of trees over removal, an arborist can recommend which limbs should and shouldn’t be removed. 

Council's Development Control Plan (DCP) Chapter G4 – Tree and Vegetation Management is a policy for tree removal in residential zoned areas.

Vegetation under 5m height on residential zoned blocks are not considered trees and can be removed without approval.

If a tree is within 45 degrees of an approved building (this can be a neighbouring building), it can be removed without Council approval.

Diagram showing a 45 degree angle between a house and a tree

Hollow trees

  • If a tree has hollows, an application must be made to Council and an animal handler must be present to remove any native animal that may inhabit the hollow if approved

Heritage/Scenic Protection/Biodiversity

  • There may be other restrictions on your property such as Heritage, Scenic Protection or Biodiversity Values. If you are unsure, please contact our Environmental Services Team and an officer can check this for you
  • If the tree on your residential zoned property does not comply with the 45-degree exemption you will be required to apply to Council for approval to remove the tree/s

Apply for a permit via the NSW Planning Portal:

My neighbours trees are very large and I am concerned about them falling on my house

Council does not have any involvement in neighbouring tree issues.

You may apply to the court under the provisions of the Trees (Disputes Between Neighbours) Act 2006 which will require that you contact your neighbour first to explain your concerns. Your neighbour’s contact details can be obtained from Council for this purpose. 

Find out more:

Tree limbs that are overhanging your property from another neighbouring tree can be cut to the boundary, subject to whether approval is required. 

It is important to discuss your concerns and plans to remove limbs with the owner of the tree to avoid any disputes arising from proposed removal of limbs. It is advisable to engage a trained arborist to assess and carry out any pruning.

I have a rural property and would like to remove trees / vegetation

If you are removing trees on Rural zoned land you must seek approval through:

Contact Us 

Last updated on 21 March 2022

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