Tree Laws & Regulations

Tree Pruning & Removal Regulations

Before removing or pruning a tree, it's essential to know your local council's rules. Browse the regulations for your area below, then check whether the 10/50 bushfire clearing code applies to your property.

Hornsby Shire Council

Hornsby Development Control Plan 2024 (Part 1, Ch. 1.2.6)

Hornsby Development Control Plan 2024 (Part 1, Chapter 1.2.6, Tree and Vegetation Preservation), under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Biodiversity and Conservation) 2021

Pruning & Removal Rules

Minor pruning that does not remove more than 10% of the canopy is generally permitted without consent; greater reduction requires council approval.

Exemptions (no consent required)

  • •Trees and vegetation within 50 metres of an approved dwelling
  • •Dead, dying, or imminently dangerous trees (with evidence)
  • •Declared noxious weeds and priority weeds
  • •Species listed in Table 1.2.6-a of the DCP (exempt species such as Cootamunday Wattle, Sydney Red Gum, Black She-oak and other nominated natives)
  • •Trees grown for fruit or fodder

Removing or damaging a protected tree without consent can attract fines of up to $1.1 million.

View DCP View SEPP Legislation
The Hills Shire Council

The Hills Shire Tree Preservation Order

The Hills Shire Tree Preservation Order, under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Biodiversity and Conservation) 2021

Pruning & Removal Rules

Consent is required to prune any tree by more than 10% of its canopy, to remove a tree that is not exempt, or to substantially alter soil levels within 3 metres of the trunk.

Exemptions (no consent required)

  • •Priority weeds declared under the Biosecurity Act
  • •Trees grown for their fruit
  • •Trees listed on Council's exempt species schedule

Unauthorised removal, damage or lopping of a protected tree can attract fines of up to $1.1 million.

View DCP View SEPP Legislation
Ku-ring-gai Council

Ku-ring-gai Council Tree Preservation Order (DCP Part 13)

Ku-ring-gai Council Tree Preservation Order under the Development Control Plan, and the State Environmental Planning Policy (Biodiversity and Conservation) 2021

Pruning & Removal Rules

Pruning that removes no more than 10% of a tree's canopy and is carried out to AS 4373 is generally exempt; removing a tree, or pruning beyond this threshold, requires Council consent unless an exemption applies.

Exemptions (no consent required)

  • •Dead, dying, or imminently dangerous trees (with photographic evidence retained for at least 6 months)
  • •Declared noxious and priority weeds under the Biosecurity Act
  • •Trees grown for fruit or fodder (other than a native fruit tree)
  • •Trees or vegetation within 3 metres of an approved dwelling (measured 1.4m above ground)
  • •Species listed on Council's exempt species schedule

Removing, pruning, or damaging a protected tree without consent can attract fines of up to $1.1 million.

View DCP View SEPP Legislation
City of Parramatta Council

City of Parramatta Development Control Plan 2023

City of Parramatta Development Control Plan 2023 and Tree Management Policy, under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Biodiversity and Conservation) 2021

Pruning & Removal Rules

Pruning of up to 10% of the canopy carried out to AS 4373 is generally exempt; removing or substantially pruning a protected tree requires Council consent unless an exemption applies.

Exemptions (no consent required)

  • •Dead, dying, or imminently dangerous trees (with evidence)
  • •Declared noxious weeds under the Biosecurity Act
  • •Trees within 3 metres of an approved dwelling (measured 1.4m above ground)
  • •Trees with a trunk circumference under 500mm (measured 1m above ground)
  • •Fruit trees (other than native fruit trees)
  • •Species listed on Council's exempt species register

Removing, pruning, or damaging a protected tree without consent can attract fines of up to $1.1 million.

View DCP View SEPP Legislation
Bushfire Clearing Code

The 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Rule

The 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Entitlement is a NSW government scheme administered by the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS). If your home is in an eligible bushfire-prone area, you may clear:

  • 10mTrees — remove any tree within 10 metres of your home.
  • 50mVegetation — clear underlying vegetation within 50 metres of your home.

This entitlement can override your council's Tree Preservation Order in eligible zones — meaning you may not need council consent for clearing that qualifies. However, it does not apply to threatened species, endangered ecological communities, or heritage items, and you must retain evidence of your eligibility.

Use the official RFS 10/50 tool below to check whether your property is in an eligible area before any clearing.

Official RFS 10/50 Clearing Tool

Check if you're in a 10/50 Vegetation Entitlement Clearing Area