Find out when you need to submit a Vegetation Removal Application
Native / Exotic Large Backyard Tree
Over 5m tall
- Trunk is over 30cm in diameter
- Plan to prune or remove it
VRA is required
Tree with Nesting Hollows
- 4m tall
- Trunk is 28cm in diameter
VRA is required (Habitat trees are protected)
Exempt Species Tree (Over Size Limit)
7m tall
- Trunk is 32cm in diameter
- Listed in Table 21.1 – Exempt Species
VRA is required and offset planting will be assessed
Pruning a Large Tree with Extensive Branches
Tree is 10m tall
- Has large branches extending over multiple properties
- Trunk diameter is greater than 30cm
- Not a threatened species or in a heritage area
VRA is required. Pruning must follow Australian Standard 4373–2007
(Why? Trees over 5m tall and with significant branch spread require assessment to ensure pruning is safe, appropriate, and does not impact habitat or structural integrity.)
Tree Roots Damaging Infrastructure
Roots are lifting paving, damaging pipes or foundations
VRA is required. Root damage must be verified, often with a certified plumber, engineer or level 5 arborist report.
Storm-Damaged Tree
- Tree damaged during a storm or high winds
- Hanging or unstable branches pose a safety risk
VRA is required. Emergency pruning/removal may be allowed, but must be reported to Council or emergency services. Photographic evidence must be provided to support assessment.
(Why? Even in emergencies, Council needs documentation to confirm the works were necessary and compliant.)
Pruning Overhanging Branches
VRA is required if it’s a declared tree and pruning beyond your boundary.
- Neighbour consent must be included
- All pruning must follow Australian Standard 4373–2007 – Pruning of Amenity Trees
Tree Near Your House
Less than 3m from house wall
- Trunk is 25cm in diameter
No VRA is needed
Emergency Removal
Removed by NSW Rural Fire Service or SES
No VRA is needed. Emergency works exemption applies
Small Native / Exotic Tree
Less than 5m tall
- Trunk under 30cm
- More than 3m from a habitable dwelling
- Not heritage-listed or threatened
No VRA is needed
(Why? This tree doesn’t meet Declared Vegetation criteria and is below the size threshold.)
Removing Deadwood or Dead Palm Fronds
Dead branches or fronds only
- Not a threatened species
- Not in a heritage conservation area
- Not hollow-bearing or used by native wildlife
No VRA is needed
Routine Garden Maintenance
Minor pruning of small trees or shrubs
- Tree is under 5m tall,
- Trunk is less than 30cm in diameter
- Not a protected species
No VRA is required - this is considered standard garden maintenance
Pruning and Maintaining Small Hedges
Routine trimming of hedges under 5m in height
- Not heritage-listed or part of declared vegetation
No VRA is required - this is considered standard garden maintenance
Tree Removal for Proposed Building Works
Property owner wants to remove a tree to build a garage
- Tree is 6m tall, located near the proposed structure
- Works are part of a Development Application (DA)
This is not assessed under the VRA
Tree removal must be assessed as part of the DA process.
Council will consider the tree’s removal in the context of the overall development.