Trees on my property

If you are considering removing or pruning a tree on your property, it is important to understand the approval process and your responsibilities under NSW planning legislation.

Do I need approval to remove or prune a tree?

In most cases, yes.

Trees and vegetation in the Armidale Regional Local Government Area are protected under NSW legislation, including the State Environmental Planning Policy (Biodiversity and Conservation) 2021.

If you wish to remove or prune a tree on your property, you are required to submit an application through the NSW Planning Portal.

Council does not accept tree removal or pruning applications directly.

    Tree removal or pruning on your property

    Applying through the NSW Planning Portal

    All tree removal or pruning requests must be lodged via the NSW Planning Portal, regardless of whether you believe the tree may be exempt.

    This ensures:

    • the correct legislation is applied

    • exemptions (if applicable) are properly assessed

    • accurate records are maintained

    • delays and compliance issues are avoided

    Even if you are confident your situation meets an exemption, you must still submit an application through the NSW Planning Portal.

    Applications submitted directly to Council, by email, phone, or in person cannot be processed.

    Owner’s consent is required

    All applications must include a completed Owner's Consent Form. 

    • The Owner’s Consent Form is available on Council’s website

    • The form must be completed and signed by the property owner

    • Applications cannot be assessed without this documentation

    Make sure the consent form is uploaded at the time you lodge your application in the NSW Planning Portal.

    What happens after I submit my application?

    Once submitted through the NSW Planning Portal:

    • your application will be assessed against the relevant planning controls

    • Council may request additional information if required

    •  you will be notified of the outcome once assessment is complete

    Please allow adequate time for assessment, particularly during busy periods.

    Trees on my property FAQs

    I believe my tree is exempt. Do I still need to apply?

    Yes.

    Even where exemptions may apply, an application must still be submitted through the NSW Planning Portal so this can be confirmed.

    Submitting an application helps avoid unintended non-compliance and ensures the correct advice is provided for your property.

    Can council tell me over the phone if my tree is exempt?

    Council staff can provide general information, but exemption decisions cannot be made without an application being lodged through the NSW Planning Portal.

    Can I remove a tree without approval if it is dangerous?

    If you believe a tree presents an immediate risk to life or property, you should take appropriate action to address the safety risk. However, an application must still be lodged through the NSW Planning Portal so the circumstances can be assessed and formally recorded.

    Where a tree on your property is considered to pose an immediate risk to life or property, the application for removal must include a Level 5 arborist report, which can be attached when lodging the application through the NSW Planning Portal.

    What if my property is in a rural zone?

    Tree management on some rural-zoned properties is administered by Local Land Services, not Council.

    Submitting an application through the NSW Planning Portal will ensure it is directed to the correct authority.

    I submitted my application - what do I do next?

    Once your application is lodged:

    • monitor the NSW Planning Portal for updates or requests for information
    • ensure all required documents, including owner’s consent, have been uploaded
    • allow time for assessment before undertaking any works

    Trees and vegetation in the Armidale Regional Local Government Area are protected under theState Environmental Planning Policy (Biodiversity & Conservation) 2021, Armidale Regional Local Environmental Plan 2012, Armidale Dumaresq Development Control Plan 2012, andtheLocal Land Services Amendment Act 2016.

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