Request to Remove Trees

You must obtain Council's written permission to undertake a restricted act (prune, remove and soil works) on and around trees over 5 metres (approx 16 feet) in height. See section 4 of the Tree Preservation Order 2007 for details.

There are some exceptions, however; the following trees do not require Council permission:

• Rubber tree (Ficus elastica)
• Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina)
• Privets (Ligustrum species)
• Umbrella trees (Schefflera actinophylla)
• Rhus tree (Toxicodendron succedaneum)
• Tree Of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima)
• Mulberry (Morus species)
• Cocos Palm (Syagrus romanzoffianum)

To arrange an inspection on your tree you need to forward a written application and pay an administration fee. You can find the necessary forms from the Downloads box at the bottom of this page.

If you are seeking permission to prune or remove neighbours' trees, Council can only accept the written application from the owner (or managing agent) of the land on which the tree is located.

To arrange for work on a Council Street Tree or Park tree please contact Citizens' Service Centre on 9335 2222 with details of your request.

If you are having difficulty in communicating with your neighbour on this issue because of earlier conflict, the Community Justice Centre may provide you with free mediation - contact them on 86887455.

Council does not undertake the pruning or removal of trees on private property. This work is best undertaken by a qualified arborist - for details of local tree contractors please contact the follow associations:

• The National Arborist Associations
  Ph: 02 4739 4339
  Fax: 02 4739 4361
  Email: nat.arborists@optusnet.com.au
  Web www.naaa.net.au
   
• Tree Contractors Association
  Tel: 1300 660 379
  Fax: 1300 794 825
  Email: admin@tcaa.com.au
   
  PO Box 6949
  Silverwater NSW
  1811