Planning on removing a tree in Sydney’s Northern Beaches?

Just because you are having an issue with a tree in yours or your neighbour’s yard, it does not mean you can whip out the chainsaw or pruning shears and start hacking away.

Every local council around Sydney has its own set of regulations, and the Local Environmental Plan also protects trees on private land.

The Local Environment Plan for Northern Beaches does give property owners some leeway in dealing with vegetation, so there are still many things you can do when carrying out tree work on your land.

Work you can do without a permit includes:

  • Trees that are less than 5 metres tall
  • Any trees that are on the Exempt species list
  • Areas where the council has authorised removal as part of hazard reductions strategies
  • Removal by Rural Fire Services if they consider the tree to be a threat to human life, or blocking access to fire trails during bushfires
  • Removing a tree if the base of the trunk at ground level is located within two metres of an existing building (not including patios, decks, pergolas, etc., even if they have been joined to the building)
  • Removing trees classed as dangerous by a level 5 arborist (can be removed with written confirmation by the arborist and without consent from the council)
  • Any trees that are dead (obtain photographic evidence before removal)
  • Trees that have fallen or partially fallen due to a storm and still pose a danger
  • If any trees don’t fall under the exemptions listed above, you will need to apply for permission from the council before removing the tree.

Pruning Trees in Sydney’s Northern Beaches

Northern Beaches council is quite proud of its greenery so even pruning can only be done under certain circumstances:

  • You can only prune 10% of a tree’s canopy within any 12 month period and only within reason
  • Deadwood may be removed from a living tree
  • Pruning to remove parasitic mistletoe or any other parasitic plant from any part of the tree
  • The pruning follows other guidelines, such as if your property is mapped within the 10/50 entitlement area, which allows the clearing of vegetation to reduce fire risk.

Dealing with tree problems concerning your neighbours

A tree which infringes on a neighbour’s property can often trigger disputes. The best course of action is to instigate a dialogue with your neighbour, even if what you intend to prune falls within the 10% canopy exemption.

If the tree requires council approval, then your neighbour will need to apply for permission from the council.

The council does not have authority to intervene in any disputes. If the tree is damaging your property, but your neighbour is not in agreement to having it pruned or removed, then it is recommended you get mediation assistance or seek legal advice.

Don’t risk illegal work on trees

If you conduct any work on trees that are on your private property, you may still be charged if they do not fall under any exemptions. For peace of mind, seek the advice of a qualified arborist working in your area, as they have the experience and knowledge to know if your problem vegetation can be pruned or removed.

Working with a qualified Northern Beaches tree removal company or arborist is essential, not only because they will have familiarity with the local guidelines, but also because they will be covered by adequate insurance to cover your property in the event of any damages.

Also checking their level of experience and reviewing references will go a long way to providing peace of mind that you are dealing with a reputable tree removal service.

Contact your local Northern Beaches council for help

To find out more about what you can and can’t do with the vegetation on your property visit the Northern Beaches council page here.

Need help with a Northern Beaches tree removalist or arborist?

Tradebusters Connect.com.au have a Top 3 local business pick directory of qualified tree removal services businesses and arborists; each one vetted for quality and qualifications. Meet our Top 3 Local Business Pick arborists in Sydney’s Northern Beaches right here.

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