Find out when you need to submit a Vegetation Removal Application

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 - Request a prelodgement meeting application(Opens in a new window)

    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.

Tree with Nesting Hollows

  • 4m tall
  • Trunk is 28cm in diameter
    VRA is required (Habitat trees are protected)

Exempt Species Tree (Over Size Limit)

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 heritage-listed or part of declared vegetation
  • Not a threatened species
  • Not hollow-bearing or actively 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 heritage-listed or part of declared vegetation
  • Not hollow-bearing or actively used by native wildlife
    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

Vegetation Clearing for Bush Fire Preparation

If you live in an area close to the bush, you need to prepare your home.
The 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Scheme gives people living near the bush an additional way of being better prepared for bush fires.

Native / Exotic Large Backyard Tree

  • Over 5m tall

  • Trunk is over 30cm in diameter
  • Plan to prune or remove it
    VRA is required

Last updated : Thu 2 Oct 2025