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Some trees on private property and public land are protected by planning overlays or local laws.

Check if you need a Tree Protection Local Law Permit or a Planning Permit to remove, prune or do works near a tree.

You need a Tree Protection Local Law Permit for a:

  • canopy tree – to remove or do works less than 2 metres from its trunk
  • significant tree to prune, remove or do works within its Tree Protection Zone.

Protected trees under the local law

Tree Protection Local Law Permit

Planning Permit for trees

Penalties for illegal tree works

If our local law is breached we can:

  • give a formal warning
  • issue a fine of $3,951 per offence occurring after 27 May 2024 (Tree Protection Local Law 2024)
  • require replacement planting or tree protection measures (in a 'Notice to Comply')
  • take the offence to the Magistrates Court for prosecution and criminal conviction.

More information

For more information about permits and trees on private property call us on (03) 9278 4888 or email us at [email protected]

Find out how to protect trees during construction.

For information about trees on neighbouring properties, visit our Tree issues, pruning and maintenance page


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