Council permits and protected trees in Sydney
Permit and approval costs in Sydney
| Item | Typical Sydney cost (2026) |
|---|---|
| Council permit application | $0 – $250 (many councils free) |
| Arborist report (when required) | $300 – $700 |
| 10/50 bushfire clearance self-assessment | $0 (via NSW RFS tool) |
| Penalty for illegal removal | $3,000 – $1m+ |
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When you need council approval
In Sydney you generally can't remove any tree on your property without checking first. Most councils require a permit to remove or significantly prune a tree over a set height or trunk diameter — thresholds vary by council, but a common trigger is height above 3–5 metres or trunk circumference above a set measure. The rules live in each council's Tree Preservation Order or vegetation Development Control Plan. Check your specific council before doing anything; an arborist familiar with that local government area usually knows the threshold.
Protected and significant species
Some species, and any tree on a council's significant tree register, get extra protection regardless of size. Native canopy species are frequently protected to preserve Sydney's tree cover. Heritage-listed properties and conservation areas add another layer of control, so a tree that would be exempt elsewhere may be protected on your block.
The 10/50 rule and bushfire clearing
NSW's 10/50 Vegetation Clearing scheme lets some properties in designated bushfire areas clear trees within 10 metres of a home without approval. It doesn't apply everywhere — check eligibility through the NSW RFS online tool, as many Sydney addresses don't qualify. Relying on 10/50 when your property isn't in an entitlement area is a common and costly mistake.
Dead, dying and dangerous exemptions
Genuinely dead, dying or dangerous trees are often exempt from the permit requirement — but you typically need evidence, such as an arborist's assessment, to rely on that exemption safely. Some councils still want to be notified even for a dead tree. Keep documentation; "it looked dead" is not a defence if the council disagrees later.
What affects whether you need a permit
| Factor | Effect |
|---|---|
| Tree height / trunk size | Above the council threshold triggers a permit |
| Species | Protected natives need approval regardless of size |
| Significant tree register | Listed trees are protected outright |
| Heritage / conservation area | Adds an extra approval layer |
| 10/50 bushfire entitlement | May exempt trees within 10m of a home |
| Dead / dangerous condition | Often exempt, but needs evidence |
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my tree is protected? Check your council's tree or vegetation Development Control Plan, or call them directly. Thresholds and protected-species lists differ by local government area.
What's the fine for removing a tree without a permit? Council penalties plus possible Land and Environment Court action. Significant illegal removals in NSW have drawn six- and seven-figure penalties.
Does the 10/50 rule apply to my property? Only if you're in a designated 10/50 entitlement area. Confirm through the NSW RFS online tool before relying on it.
Can I remove a dead tree without approval? Often yes, but keep evidence it was genuinely dead or dangerous. Some councils still require notification even then.
Who arranges the permit — me or the arborist? Either. Many Sydney arborists will lodge the application on your behalf; confirm at quote stage whether that's included or a separate fee.
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