Planning on removing a tree in North Sydney?
The simple act of removing a tree or even a few troublesome branches from your private yard in Sydney’s North Shore region is not as clear-cut as you might think.
The North Sydney Council Local Environmental Plan protects trees and vegetation in the area even when it’s on private property.
In a lot of circumstances, it’s okay to remove a problematic tree, providing the tree you are eliminating or pruning exhibits one or more of the following characteristics:
- Trees that are dead or dying – a qualified arborist must confirm the condition of the tree
- Pruning to remove deadwood from the tree
- Noxious weeds as outlined in the Biosecurity Act, 2015 [https://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/#/view/act/2015/24]
- Trees which are allowed according to Development Consent
- African Olive tree and Cocos Palms.
Even if you consider your tree to fall under any of the above conditions, it is always best to err on the side of caution and check with your local council to see what they have to say about the matter. Fines may be issued if you are found in breach of tree removal regulations.
Pruning regulations
Pruning falls under the environmental protection act, but you still have some control over your tree’s vegetation in certain circumstances.
The North Sydney council has developed a tree and management policy to control unnecessary or unlawful removal or destruction of vegetation from the area. This purpose of the policy is to maintain the areas visual appeal as well as to:
- List trees which are protected by the policy
- List species of trees which aren’t covered by the policy
- Highlight the penalties to residents of the area for unlawful pruning, destruction, or removal of trees.
Legislation covering the 10/50 entitlement area may allow you to remove trees or prune if it creates a public safety hazard and reduces the impact of bushfires. There is an online assessment tool you can use which will help clear up any issues you may be having when dealing with your properties vegetation.
In a few instances, a permit will also be required such as when the tree is a threatened native species or a heritage item within a heritage conservation area. Trees that are identified as part of a condition of development consent will also require permission before removal.
More information can be found on the North Sydney Council website right here.
Using a qualified North Sydney arborist
Tree removal should always be completed by a qualified professional. Arborists in North Sydney are up-to-date on all the latest regulations and can save you time by being able to inform you about your legal responsibilities.
An arborist report can be made to apply to the council for permission to remove trees from your property. Using an arborist can significantly speed up the process of getting permission to remove an unwanted tree, or remove excessive vegetation. Plus, they have all the necessary safety equipment and the experience to remove or prune tree safely without causing damage to the surrounding property.
Tradebusters Connect have several qualified tree removal services on file; each one vetted for quality before earning a place on their site.
Other Useful Links:
Arborists & Tree Care Services Sydney
Arborists & Tree Services in Hills District
Arborist & Tree Services Northern Beaches
Arborist & Tree Services in Chatswood & Upper North Shore
Arborist & Tree Services in Lower North Shore