Avoid $5,000 Fines: The Tree Removal Sydney Rulebook You Never Hear About

If you’ve ever looked at a tree on your property and thought, “It’s my house, my yard — I’ll just remove it,” you’re definitely not alone. Every year, Sydney homeowners get caught out by the maze of council rules around tree removal. I once heard of a homeowner who removed what they thought was a “weed tree” in their backyard — only to receive a council letter weeks later asking for an explanation and threatening a fine. They had no idea the tree was protected.

Stories like this are far more common than people think, and the surprise can be costly. In some cases, the fines reach $5,000 per tree, sometimes even more.

As arborists, we see the same pattern over and over again — not malice, just simple misunderstandings. So this guide breaks down what homeowners in their 30s to 70s actually need to know before touching that chainsaw.

Welcome to the untold truth about tree removal Sydney rules.

Why Sydney Councils Care So Much About Trees

To many homeowners, the approval process feels like red tape. But councils aren’t just trying to be difficult — there’s a purpose behind the rules.

Trees help cool down suburbs, reduce stormwater run-off, provide habitat for native birds, reduce noise and wind, and even increase neighbourhood value.

Sydney’s urban canopy is shrinking, so the government is trying to protect what’s left. Plus, removing big trees without proper technique can be dangerous — for the homeowner, neighbours, and underground services.

The Trees You Can Remove Without Approval

1. Exempt Species

Many fast-growing, invasive or nuisance species can be removed freely. Common examples include Camphor Laurel, Privet, and African Olive.Most councils agree on these, but each can have its own list.

2. Dead or Dying Trees

If a tree is completely dead or significantly dying, removal is usually allowed.Tip: Always take photos as evidence — councils may ask for proof later.

3. Trees Too Close to Your House

Most councils allow removal of trees within 3–5 metres of a dwelling or structure.Distance varies by council (Northern Beaches and Ku-ring-gai differ quite a bit).

4. Small Trees

Trees under a certain height or trunk diameter threshold — often below 5m — are typically exempt.

An arborist can quickly confirm this during an on-site assessment.

When You Must Get Approval (Or Risk a Fine)

Approval is usually required if a tree is:

• A native species

• Taller than a certain height

• Above a trunk width limit

• Heritage-listed

• Environmentally significant

• Near waterways or protected corridors

• In a bushfire or conservation zone

  
  

Removing a protected tree without permission is where the big fines come in. Some councils issue penalties over $10,000 for deliberate removal — but even honest mistakes can cost you thousands.

We’ve even seen situations where homeowners had to plant multiple replacement trees and pay for additional reports just to rectify the breach.

How the Council Approval Process Works

1. On-Site Assessment

A qualified arborist (AQF Level 3 or above) inspects the tree’s health, species, and risks.

2. Arborist Report

This formal report includes:

• Photos

• Species identification

• Health assessment

• Risk rating

• Recommendations

• Justification for removal

  
  

Councils won’t accept informal notes — they want proper documentation.

3. Lodge the Application

Every council has its own form or online system.Processing typically takes 10–21 days.

4. Council Decision

You’ll receive one of the following:

• Approval

• Conditional approval (often requiring replanting)

• Refusal

Arborists who work with these councils daily can often anticipate outcomes.

Common Mistakes That Lead to Expensive Trouble

“It looked dangerous so I removed it.”

Unless the danger is immediate, councils still require approval or a risk assessment.

“My neighbour said it was fine.”

Neighbours mean well, but many homeowners have been fined after following casual advice.

Hiring a cheap contractor who says “no approval needed”

If they’re wrong, you get fined — not them.

Over-pruning

Removing too much canopy can be considered illegal removal.

No evidence of dead or dangerous condition

A few quick photos can save thousands.

Different Councils, Different Rules

Sydney’s council boundaries can feel like different countries when it comes to tree rules.

• Northern Beaches: strict on native species

• Ku-ring-gai: detailed justification required

• Hornsby: tight rules near bushland

• Willoughby & Mosman: more flexible depending on location

  
  

You can literally move one street over and face a completely different set of regulations.

When a Tree Is Dangerous — And You Can Act Fast

If a tree poses immediate danger, you can often act quickly.

Emergency signs include:

• Cracks in major limbs

• Sudden leaning

• Uprooting

• Storm damage

• Dead branches over structures

  
  

In urgent cases, an arborist can provide same-day reports that councils recognise.

What If Your Application Is Refused?

Even if council refuses removal, you may still be able to:

• Prune the tree

• Reduce canopy weight

• Install cables/support systems

• Request a second opinion

• Reapply later if the tree declines

  
  

Councils prefer retention where possible, but maintenance solutions can keep your property safe.

The Smartest Way to Avoid Fines

If you’re unsure whether your tree needs approval, don’t guess — the stakes are too high.

A quick arborist assessment can tell you:

• Whether approval is needed

• If the tree is exempt

• What rules apply to your suburb

• How strong your application will be

• Whether removal or pruning is the best option

  
  

Professional guidance is the easiest way to avoid fines and stay compliant with tree removal Sydney regulations.

Final Thoughts

Sydney’s tree rules can be confusing, but they’re manageable with the right advice. A little clarity now can save a lot of stress (and money) later.

If you’re unsure about a tree — or worried it may be dangerous — reach out to an experienced arborist. A quick inspection could save you thousands.