Can I Remove A Tree On My Property?

Are you planning to have any work on your property’s trees? Before deciding to proceed with this type of work read this article & contact us today.

A Simple Check Before You Begin

Are you planning to have any work done on your property’s trees? Before deciding to proceed with this type of work, you’ll need to check with your local councilas the likelihood is that you will need a permit.

These types of permits are a type of protection of local trees, it is the council’s intention to preserve the urban forest as well as protecting any trees of significant value to the local community.

These protections are specifically designed by the Council to protect the local environment, so any violation may result in significant fines as potentially some legal action against you. For this very reason it is vital to understand the laws that are relevant to you and how to carry out work that is in line with the environmental protection laws.

In this guide we will cover some essential elements of the Brisbane City Council tree regulations. This includes understanding when you need a permit, which exemptions might exclude you from needing a permit and how to apply for one.

When Would You Need A Permit To Remove A Tree?

The laws and regulations will vary from one council to another. However, the instances (below) list are when you are most likely going to need a permit to remove tree(s) on your property.

Protected & Endangered Tree Species

You will very likely need a permit or approval from the council or local city forestry department if you need to cut down endangered or protected trees. Endangered or protected trees are classified as those facing extinction or are rare to find in Australia.

Permits to cut down protected trees are given in very special circumstances and at the advice of a city or council arborist. Cutting down protected or endangered trees without the proper permit is illegal and those found guilty usually get large fines that (at times) can run into the thousands of dollars.

Trees Under Government Programs

In some cases you want to cut down a tree on your property that was planted as part of a local or federal revegetation program. Maybe you or the previous owner/occupier received a government grant or subsidy to plant the tree. In these cases, you cannot cut down the tree without the correct permit.

If you are not sure about the status of the tree in or around your property, it is advisable to ask a local tree expert (such as Affordable Tree Service) or visit a local forestry office for further advice.

Trees On Boundary Lines

Again, you may need a permit to cut down any trees on boundary lines, especially, if the boundary is next to public or council land – as some of these trees may actually belong to the council even when they are partly on your property.

Trees That May Not Need A Permit To Remove

In most cases the following trees may not need a council permit before removal.

• Dead trees
• Fallen trees
• Trees within 10m of your home in fire danger zones
• Trees within 3m of your home foundations
• Storm-damaged trees and hazardous trees
• Pest species
• Palm trees

Please Note: The above is a general list and some councils require removal for ALL trees dead or alive, so again, be sure to check local requirements.