Trees on Your Property

trees in your property.jpg

The general leafy character of the suburbs of Lane Cove is a major priority for the local community and the conservation of significant areas of bushland is reflected in Council’s plans and policies.

The trees in Lane Cove are protected under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Biodiversity and Conservation) 2021. Council’s Development Control Plan includes a specific section on Tree Preservation with the objective of retaining the maximum possible number of existing trees, particularly native trees, in healthy condition and natural form and shape.

Council will provide guidance in relation to your pruning and removal needs. 

Pruning or Removing Trees

Step 1.Check if you require a permit

A permit is required for the pruning/removal of any tree, whether indigenous or exotic, which:

  • Has a height exceeding 4 metres
  • Canopy spread greater than 5m OR
  • Trunk diameter greater than 150mm diameter (measure at 1 metre above the ground)

Step 2.Check if your works may be considered exempt

A number of works including, removal or pruning of dead branches or any trees or vegetation on the Exempt Species List may be considered exempt.

Please check the list of Exempt Tree Works prior to commencing your application.   You will still need to be issued a permit to carry out the works however, no fee applies.

Step 3.Gather information required

For each tree within your application, you will need to provide the type of tree, location on your property and the reason for your request.

Please also include the following images along with your application:

  1. The overall tree from the ground to the tip
  2. A close-up of the bark
  3. A close-up of the leaves and arrangement
  4. A close-up of the fruit (if available)

If your application relates to 4 or more trees, please upload a word document containing all of the relevant details. 

Step 4.Submit your application

You can submit your request for a Private Tree Works Inspection online.

The fee payable to prune or remove a tree will vary depending on the following:

  • The number of trees included in your application
  • If you wish to be present during the inspection

No fee is payable for applicants with a valid pensioner concession card.

Tree Application Fees

Below are the current fees valid from 1 July 2023:

Task 1-3 Trees 4 or more Trees
Pruning: $130.00 $130.00 + $20.00 each additional tree  
Removal: $130.00 $130.00 + $20.00 each additional tree
Meeting with Arborist Fee   $70.00 (one-off fee - limited to 20 minutes maximum)