How to check tree-removal rules for your property.

Start with the exact address

Suburb names do not always settle the local government area, and nearby properties can sit under different councils.

Our location pages name the council for each listed suburb. For the final check, use the current council and NSW planning information for the exact address.

Read the current tree guidance

Council tree pages and linked policies change. Use the live source rather than a copied threshold from an old article.

Look for guidance covering:

• pruning and removal;
• exempt or minor work;
• dead, dying or dangerous trees;
• heritage and conservation areas;
• development consent conditions; and
• application documents and owner responsibilities.

Tree size is only one possible consideration. Species, location, property controls and the type of cut can also matter.

Check for overlapping rules

A council tree process may not be the only requirement. The property may also be affected by heritage, biodiversity, development, bushfire, road or electricity-network controls.

The NSW Planning Portal Spatial Viewer (opens in new tab) can help identify planning matters for an address. Read the source documents shown there and contact the responsible authority if the result is unclear.

Match the approval to the work

When approval is required, make sure the description, plans and conditions match the tree work being booked. If the proposed work changes, check whether the approval also needs to change.

Damaged trees still need a check

First make the area safe. Photograph damage only from a safe position and keep people away from hanging branches and powerlines.

Emergency rules differ between councils. Check the current process as soon as it is safe rather than assuming damage creates an automatic exemption.