Pruning or Removing Trees
The trees in Lane Cove are protected under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Biodiversity and Conservation) 2021, (Biodiversity SEPP). This policy allows Council to regulate the tree canopy through the Lane Cove Council Development Control Plan 2010. Failure to comply can incur fines or prosecution of up to $1,100,000.
You require Council consent to prune or remove a tree:
- Greater than 4m in height and/or
- A trunk diameter more than 150mm measured 1m above existing ground level.
Customers can submit an online Private Tree Inspection Application including payment of the inspection fee.
For more information you can view the guidelines contained in DCP - Part J
Tree and Neighbours
Trees (Disputes Between Neighbours Act) 2006
You can apply to Council to prune or remove a tree (including hedges) on a neighbouring property.
Owners consent is required, in writing, for tree removal or accessing their property in order to conduct pruning works. The owners consent must accompany the online Private Tree Inspection Application. Pruning must be done within Council guidelines.
Council does not grant you or a contractor permission to enter a neighbouring property.
If a neighbour is being uncooperative this becomes a civil issue to which Council will not be involved. Avenues for mediation include: