Do You Need Council Approval to Remove a Tree in Sydney? (2026 Guide)

One of the most common questions Sydney homeowners ask Sydney Tree Loppers is: “Do I need council approval to remove a tree?”

The answer isn’t always straightforward.

While many trees in Sydney are protected, there are specific exemptions under the Sydney Development Control Plan 2012 (DCP 2012) that allow certain species to be removed or pruned without council approval — provided strict conditions are met.

Understanding these rules can help you avoid fines and ensure any work carried out on your property is fully compliant.

Trees You Can Remove Without Council Approval

Under the Sydney DCP 2012, the following species may be removed without a permit, unless they are listed on the Significant Tree Register or a heritage tree list:

• Ailanthus altissima (Tree of Heaven)
• Bamboo (all species and cultivars)
• Citrus (all varieties)
• Cotoneaster
• Ficus elastica (Rubber Tree)
• Gleditsia triacanthos (Wild Honey Locust – not cultivars)
• Lagunaria patersonia (Norfolk Island Hibiscus)
• Ligustrum (Privet)
• Melia azedarach (White Cedar)
• Morus species (Mulberry)
• Musa species (Banana)
• Olea europaea var. Africana (African Olive)
• Robinia pseudacacia (False Acacia – not cultivars)
• Salix babylonica (Willow)
• Schefflera actinophylla (Umbrella Tree)
• Syagrus romanzoffianum (Cocos Palm)

 Important: Even if a tree is on this list, it cannot be removed without approval if it is classified as significant or heritage-listed.

Trees That Can Be Removed If Under 10 Metres

The following species can be removed without approval only if they are under 10 metres in height, unless they are listed as significant trees:

• Cinnamomum camphora (Camphor Laurel)
• Celtis sinensis (Chinese Nettle Tree)
• Celtis occidentalis (American Nettle Tree)
• Erythrina x sykesii (Coral Tree)
• Liquidambar styraciflua (Liquidambar)

Your Legal Responsibilities as a Property Owner

Even when exemptions apply, the responsibility sits with the property owner.

You must:

• Ensure the tree species is correctly identified
• Confirm it meets exemption criteria
• Obtain identification from a qualified arborist or horticulturalist (minimum AQF Level 3)
• Keep photo evidence of the tree and work carried out

If council investigates, you may need to prove the work was compliant.

When Can You Prune a Tree Without Approval?

You can prune a tree on private property without council approval if:

• No more than 5% of the canopy is removed
• The work does not affect the tree’s health or structural stability
• Pruning follows the Australian Standard for Pruning of Amenity Trees
• Work is carried out by a qualified arborist (minimum AQF Level 2)

Sydney Tree Pruning Clearance Guidelines

There are also strict rules around how much clearance you’re allowed when pruning:

Major Arterial Roads

• Clearance: 4.5m above road
• Branch size: up to 100mm diameter

Local Roads

• Clearance:
• 2.5m above parking lanes
• 4.5m above roads
• Branch size: up to 100mm diameter

Pedestrian Paths

• Clearance: 2.5m above footpaths
• Branch size: up to 100mm diameter

Power & Telecommunications Lines

• Clearance: 0.5m to 1m from service line
• Branch size: up to 50mm diameter

Buildings

• Clearance: up to 1m from structure (roof/walls)
• Branch size: up to 50mm diameter

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming all “small trees” are exempt
• Removing trees without proper identification
• Over-pruning beyond 5% canopy
• Not documenting the work
• Ignoring heritage or significant tree listings

These mistakes can lead to significant fines and legal issues.

Why It’s Still Best to Speak to a Professional

Even when trees appear exempt, there are often grey areas — especially around species identification, height, and structural impact.

A qualified arborist can:

• Confirm whether a tree is exempt
• Ensure all work complies with council regulations
• Carry out safe pruning or removal
• Provide documentation if required

Need Help With Tree Removal in Sydney?

If you’re unsure whether your tree can be removed or pruned without approval, it’s always safer to get professional advice first.

GDE Tree Services Sydney works across all areas of Sydney and can help with:

• Tree assessments and identification
• Safe tree removal
• Tree pruning and maintenance
• Stump grinding and root management
• Emergency tree services

Our Tree Services in Sydney

• Tree Removal Sydney
• Emergency Tree Services Sydney
• Tree Pruning Sydney
• Stump Grinding Sydney
• Land Clearing Sydney
• Palm Tree Removal Sydney