On first thoughts, it may seem an overreach to require permission to prune or remove a tree that exists on your own property. However, the tree management controls are absolutely necessary to ensure the conservation of not only individual trees but also the urban tree cover more generally. Far beyond just their aesthetic value, trees in an urban environment help to regulate temperature, improve the quality of the air we breath, help to slow runoff and reduce the risk of flooding and provide habitat for wildlife. All this before even considering some of the more complex social and economic benefits that a healthy urban forest provides. Whilst there are some exemptions when a permit is not required to remove a tree, the best practice with pruning or tree removal Sydney is to apply for a permit. Failure to do so may not only irreparably damage an important resource, it can also place you at risk of significant financial penalty.
So, what’s the first step when wanting to remove a tree?
It’s crucial that you ensure that the tree which you wish to remove is not a heritage item or protected. Depending upon the tree’s status, it will either require a permit or development consent. You can also find out at this stage whether or not the tree might be exempt. This will require an arborist to ascertain certain features regarding the tree. These can include the health of the tree. If a tree is deemed to be unhealthy and or poses a risk to people, infrastructure and or property, then it can be deemed to require immediate action. Similarly, there are certain species that may be removed without a permit or development consent but it is crucial that this is ascertained via the arborist, as significant financial penalties apply for unlawful destruction of trees.
Applying for a permit or development consent
If it is deemed that you need to apply for a permit to remove a tree then the cost of the application is $95. The lodging of a development application is a more costly process, with the application fee costing $129 and a notification fee of $650. Whilst these are not insignificant costs, the value of the tree is far greater and the financial penalties associated with failing to adhere to these processes can run into the hundreds of thousands for individuals and the millions for companies. It’s simply not worth not following procedure. Applications will typically be assessed within a 28 day turn around.
What happens once the permit is granted?
Your application may be denied but this will focus on the following stages once a permit is granted. There are still several conditions that must be followed. Tree removal Sydney should only be undertaken by a qualified arborist, with a minimum level 3 in arboriculture (AQF). This helps to ensure that works are undertaken in line with safe work practices as mandated by the SafeWork NSW Code of Practice-Amenity Tree Industry.
The next phase to consider is the need for replacement planting. Typically a permit for tree removal Sydney will include a prerequisite to replace the tree that has been removed. This helps to minimise overall canopy loss to the surrounding area. Specific requirements will be outlined regarding the size of the tree when it is actually planted and its desired height at maturity. There is some freedom regarding species selection but it is recommended that consultation be undertaken with the arborist to settle on a tree that will be suitable within the specific area. Serious consideration needs to be given to proximity to electrical and sewerage services, proximity to buildings and proximity to neighbouring walls and boundary lines. Failure to take these factors into consideration can create more problems in the future and failure to adhere to permit conditions can also result in penalties.
There is a lot to consider but a trained arborist working in this field everyday can help to demystify it all and carry out the work that you desire.
Comentarios