Introduction

Managing trees on private property in Sydney is about safety, amenity, and legal compliance. The City of Sydney Council regulates pruning and removal to protect the urban canopy, wildlife habitats, and public safety. Not following the rules can result in significant fines and disputes with neighbours or council.

Triple T Tree Services helps homeowners navigate these requirements end-to-end—assessment, reports, council liaison, safe works, and site cleanup—so you stay compliant and protected.

Why tree regulations exist

• Preserve urban greenery: Mature trees provide shade, cooling, and character.
• Protect biodiversity: Many species support native birds and wildlife.
• Public safety: Discourages unsafe or excessive lopping that creates hazards.
• Balanced development: Prevents unnecessary clearing in high-density areas.

Suburbs covered by Sydney City Council

If you live in any of the suburbs below, these rules apply to you (if outside this list, check your local council’s regulations):

General rule: do you need a permit?

Yes—in most cases you need a council permit to prune or remove a tree in Sydney City Council. The only exceptions are when your situation meets the official exemptions (detailed below). Proceeding without approval can lead to fines and compliance orders.

How to apply for a permit (and typical fees)

If your work is not exempt, apply directly to Sydney City Council. Triple T Tree Services can prepare supporting documentation (photos, arborist notes, scope, and risk controls). Click here for these application forms and all the necessary information.

*Fees are indicative and may change per council updates. Always confirm current fees on the City of Sydney website.

Helpful internal links: Tree Removal Sydney • Tree Pruning North Shore • Stump Grinding North Shore

Permit exemptions

1) Pruning exemption: within council guidelines

• Your pruning conforms to the council’s Tree Pruning Guidelines Table (branch size limits, required clearances near roads/paths/buildings).
• You remove no more than 5% of the total canopy.
• Work poses no structural or health risk to the tree.
• Work follows AS4373 – Pruning of Amenity Trees.
• Performed by a qualified arborist (AQF Level 2 minimum).

Always keep dated photos and your arborist’s details for your records.

2) Pruning exemption: certain species (under 10 m)

Some species may be pruned without a permit if they are under 10 m and not on the Significant Tree Register. Examples include Camphor laurel (Cinnamomum camphora), Chinese nettle tree (Celtis sinensis), Coral tree (Erythrina × sykesii), and Liquidambar (Liquidambar styraciflua).

Important: Identification should be confirmed by an AQF Level 3 arborist and supported by photographic evidence.

3) Removal exemption: immediate risk

No permit is needed if the tree is dead, dying, or poses an immediate risk to life or substantial property, with the risk likely within 48 hours. Typical signs include root plate instability, soil heave/cracking, severe storm damage, splitting branches, or advanced decay.

Requirements: A Level 3 arborist must verify the risk and provide a written report with photos before—or immediately after—removal. Keep records of the condition, risk level, and why your actions were the minimum necessary.

4) Removal exemption: specified species

Certain species can be removed without a permit (unless registered as significant). Examples include Tree of Heaven, Bamboo (all species), Privet, Rubber tree, Banana, Mulberry, Willow, and Cocos palm. Always confirm identity with a qualified arborist before removing.

Penalties for non-compliance

• Fines & legal action: Unauthorised works can attract substantial penalties.
• Rectification orders: You may be required to replace or remediate.
• Neighbour disputes: Poorly handled pruning/removal can escalate quickly.

Professional guidance protects you from mistakes that can become expensive and stressful.

The role of professional arborists

Triple T Tree Services provides fully insured, council-aware arborists (AQF Levels 2 & 3) trained in hazard assessment, council reporting, safe dismantling, pruning to standard, and site remediation (including stump grinding and green-waste management).

• Compliance-first: correct methods and documentation.
• Safety: advanced rigging, EWP/cranes where required, and traffic management.
• Insurance: comprehensive coverage for peace of mind.
• Finish: tidy sites and neighbour-friendly conduct.

Ways to save time & money

1. Book an early assessment: Don’t wait for storms—identify risks before they escalate.
2. Check exemptions: Pruning within limits or exempt species may avoid permit fees.
3. Bundle services: Combine pruning/removal + stump grinding in one visit.
4. Improve access: Clear driveways/paths to reduce handling time.
5. Schedule smartly: Non-urgent works outside peak seasons can be more cost-effective.

FAQs

Can I prune a neighbour’s overhanging branches?

Seek neighbour consent and check council rules—overhanging pruning may still require approval. Triple T can assess and advise the safest, compliant approach.

Do fruit trees need permits?

Many citrus species are exempt, but always verify the species and any heritage/special listings. When in doubt, ask us to confirm.

How long does the council take to decide?

Time frames vary with workload and complexity. Build in extra time for development-related works and any requested arborist reports.

What documentation should I keep if I claim an exemption?

Arborist report (with AQF level noted), date-stamped photographs, species ID, measurement notes (for pruning limits), and a clear scope of works.

Is DIY lopping a good idea?

No. DIY increases risk of injury, property damage, and non-compliance. Professional crews bring the right methods, insurance, and paperwork.