Application Process
Even though your works may be considered Fee-Free, you are still required lodge an application for a Fee Free Tree Works Permit for any tree that has a trunk diameter of 150mm diameter or greater than 4 metres in height or has a canopy spread of 5m.
Please include the following images in your application:
- The overall tree from the ground to the tip
- A close-up of the bark
- A picture of the leaves and arrangement
- A picture of the fruit (if available)
Council’s Tree Preservation Officer will review the application and an inspection may be carried out if required. Should Council be able to identify the tree from the images provided, your application may be fast-tracked and can usually be approved within 1-2 weeks.
Fee-Free Tree Works
A Fee-Free Tree Works Permit is required in respect of any of the following Fee-Free trees and/or acts:
- Any tree having a height exceeding 4 metres a canopy spread more than 5m or trunk diameter greater than 150mm (measured at 1 metre above the ground)
- Pruning of dead branches. Council encourages that such pruning works are undertaken by a qualified Arborist and in accordance with the relevant Australian Standards.
- Pruning of tree branches that are within 3 meters of electric powerlines (Street) as required by State Legislation and the pruning of branches with 0.5m of the service wire (Street to dwelling). Council encourages that such pruning works are undertaken by a qualified Arborist where necessary and in accordance with the relevant Australian Standards.
- Pruning or removal of any tree of a tree species that has been declared a noxious plant in the Lane Cove local government area under the Biosecurity Act 2015.
- The removal of a tree that Council is satisfied is dead or dying, provided that the tree is not required as the habitat of native animals.
Fee Payable
Trees that are included on the Fee-Free Species List do not usually require payment of a fee.
If the application does not meet the relevant criteria, you will be notified and will need to pay the relevant fee should you wish to proceed with your application.