Council Tree Removal Applications: A Step-by-Step Guide for Sydney Property Owners

Understanding Sydney Council Tree Removal Applications

Sydney's urban canopy is a vital part of our city's ecosystem and character, providing shade, improving air quality, and supporting local wildlife. To protect this valuable resource, local councils throughout Sydney have established strict regulations governing tree removal on private property.

For property owners, navigating these regulations can be challenging, with each council having its own specific requirements, forms, and approval processes. Whether you're dealing with a hazardous tree, planning development, or simply managing your garden, understanding the proper application process is essential to avoid potential penalties and delays.

At Sydney Arborist Solutions, we specialise in guiding property owners through the complexities of council tree removal applications across Sydney's diverse local government areas. This comprehensive guide provides current information for successfully navigating the application process in 2025, helping you achieve your property management goals while ensuring compliance with local regulations.

Understanding Different Council Requirements

One of the most challenging aspects of tree removal in Sydney is that requirements vary significantly between different council areas. What's permitted in one suburb might require extensive documentation in another.

1. Major Sydney Council Approaches

Here's how some of Sydney's major councils approach tree removal applications:

• Northern Beaches Council: Requires a tree permit application for most trees over 3 metres tall. Dead or severely diseased trees may qualify for exemption certificates.
• North Sydney Council: Has strict tree preservation orders protecting trees over 10 metres tall or with a trunk diameter exceeding 200mm.
• Inner West Council: Requires permits for trees over 4 metres tall or with a trunk diameter greater than 150mm measured at 1.4 metres above ground level.
• City of Sydney: Requires approval for removal of trees taller than 5 metres, with a spread of more than 5 metres, or with a trunk diameter exceeding 300mm at ground level.
• Sutherland Shire Council: Has comprehensive tree and bushland vegetation management policies requiring permits for most established trees.
• Randwick City Council: Controls the removal of trees over 3 metres in height or with a trunk diameter of 75mm or greater measured at ground level.
• Willoughby City Council: Protects trees over 4 metres in height or with a crown spread of 3 metres or more. Also requires permits for trees with a trunk diameter of 150mm or greater at 1.4 metres from ground level.
• City of Ryde: Covers trees over 3 metres in height, or with a trunk diameter of 100mm or more measured at 1.4 metres above ground level.
• Hornsby Shire Council: Regulates trees over 3 metres tall or with a diameter greater than 75mm measured at 1.4 metres above ground level.
• Waverley Council: Requires permits for trees with a height of 5 metres or more or a canopy spread of over 5 metres.

Before proceeding with any tree work, it's vital to check your specific council's website or contact their planning department directly. Alternatively, consult with our arborists who are familiar with local requirements across Sydney through our professional consultations.

The Step-by-Step Application Process

While specific requirements vary between councils, the general process for obtaining tree removal approval follows these steps:

Step 1: Determine if You Need a Permit

Before applying, confirm whether your specific tree requires council approval for removal. Consider:

• Tree species: Some councils exempt certain species (particularly invasive or weed species)
• Tree size: Most councils only regulate trees above certain height or trunk diameter thresholds
• Tree location: Trees in heritage conservation zones or on properties with heritage listings often have stricter requirements
• Tree health: Dead, dying, or demonstrably hazardous trees may have simplified approval processes
• Exceptions: Emergency situations where trees pose immediate danger may allow for retrospective approval

Step 2: Gather Required Documentation

A complete application typically requires:

• Council application form: Available from your council's website or offices
• Property details: Including lot and DP number from your rates notice
• Tree information: Species, size, location, and reason for removal request
• Site plan: Showing the location of the tree(s) relative to buildings
• Photographs: Clear images of the tree(s) from multiple angles
• Application fee: Varies by council ($70-$150 for basic applications)

Step 3: Consider Professional Documentation

For more complex cases or when the justification for removal isn't visually obvious, professional documentation significantly improves approval chances:

• Arborist Report: A professional assessment documenting the tree's condition, risks, and recommendation for removal
• Tree Risk Assessment: Quantified evaluation of hazards posed by the tree using industry-standard QTRA and TRAQ methodologies
• Tree Structure Testing: Advanced diagnostics that can detect internal decay and structural weaknesses
• Structural Engineer's Report: If claiming damage to foundations or structures
• Medical Certificate: If removal is requested due to health issues (allergies, etc.)

Our arborist reports are prepared by AQF Level 5 qualified consulting arborists and are widely accepted by Sydney councils, significantly improving your chances of approval. For complex properties, we can also develop comprehensive tree management plans that address long-term tree care needs.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Most Sydney councils now accept online applications through their websites, though paper submissions are still accepted. When submitting:

• Keep copies: Retain all documentation for your records
• Reference number: Note your application reference number for follow-up
• Attachments: Ensure all supporting documents are included
• Payment: Application fees must be paid for processing to begin

Step 5: Council Assessment Process

After submission, your application will undergo these typical stages:

• Initial review: Basic check for complete documentation (1-3 days)
• Site inspection: A council officer or tree management officer will typically visit to inspect the tree (1-3 weeks)
• Assessment: Evaluation against council policies and local environmental plans including tree preservation orders and the NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act
• Determination: Decision to approve (with or without conditions) or reject
• Notification: Written notice of the decision

Most Sydney councils aim to process straightforward tree removal applications within 2-4 weeks, though complex cases or applications during busy periods may take longer. Having our team conduct a pre-application consultation can help streamline this process by ensuring all required information is properly prepared before submission.

Step 6: Addressing Conditions or Rejections

If your application is:

• Approved with conditions: Common conditions include replacement planting requirements or specific tree removal methods
• Rejected: You'll typically receive reasons for the refusal and can either:
  • Submit a modified application addressing the concerns
  • Appeal the decision through formal council review processes
  • Consider alternative solutions like selective pruning

Working with an experienced arborist from the beginning significantly reduces the likelihood of rejection, as they can help prepare applications that address potential council concerns proactively.

Improving Your Approval Chances

Based on our extensive experience with Sydney councils, these strategies significantly increase your likelihood of approval:

1. Valid Reasons for Removal

Councils are most likely to approve removal when you can demonstrate:

• Safety hazards: Documented structural defects, disease, or instability
• Property damage: Evidence of current damage to structures or infrastructure
• Dead or dying condition: Trees in irreversible decline
• Inappropriate species: Invasive species or trees planted in unsuitable locations
• Compliance with approved development: Trees preventing reasonable development rights

Requests based purely on leaf litter, minor inconvenience, or aesthetic preferences are rarely approved without other supporting factors.

2. Professional Assessment

Professional arboricultural assessments dramatically improve approval rates by providing:

• Objective expertise: Councils give significant weight to qualified arborist opinions
• Technical documentation: Proper terminology and assessment methodology
• Compliance knowledge: Alignment with specific council policies and requirements
• Alternative solutions: Professional recommendations for tree management alternatives when removal isn't justified

3. Replacement Planting Strategy

Many councils look favourably on applications that include:

• Replacement planting plans: Proactively offering to plant new trees
• Appropriate species selection: Choosing native or suitable alternatives
• Canopy recovery strategy: Planning for long-term canopy replacement

4. Complete, Professional Applications

Avoid delays and rejections by ensuring:

• Thorough documentation: Include all required information
• Clear photographs: High-quality images showing the entire tree and specific issues
• Accurate information: Precise measurements and species identification
• Proper justification: Clear explanation of removal rationale

Understanding Non-Compliance Consequences

Removing trees without required approval in Sydney can result in significant penalties:

• Financial penalties: Fines ranging from $3,000 for individuals to $1,000,000+ for serious breaches under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act
• Replacement orders: Mandatory planting of replacement trees (often multiple trees for each one removed)
• Legal proceedings: Potential court action for serious breaches
• Development complications: Issues with future development applications or property sales

The severity of penalties often depends on the significance of the tree, whether the removal was intentional, and if the person responsible is a repeat offender.

Conclusion: Navigating the Process Successfully

Successfully navigating Sydney's council tree removal application processes requires understanding specific local requirements, presenting strong justification, and providing proper documentation. While the process can seem daunting, with the right approach and professional support, property owners can achieve their objectives while complying with local regulations.

At Sydney Arborist Solutions, our consulting arborists have extensive experience with tree removal applications across all Sydney council areas. Our arborist reports and expert guidance significantly increase approval chances while ensuring all council requirements are properly addressed. We utilise our knowledge of local environmental regulations and specialised assessment methods to provide authoritative documentation that councils respect and trust.

For professional assistance with your council tree removal application or to discuss your specific situation, contact our team for a consultation. You can also learn more about our consultation process and transparent fee structure. We're committed to helping Sydney property owners navigate tree management regulations effectively and responsibly while maintaining the balance between development needs and environmental conservation.

Visit the Sydney Arborist Solutions blog for more expert advice on tree management, council compliance, and professional arboricultural services throughout Sydney.