Trees that are planted on public land are managed by Council and it is illegal to prune a tree owned by Council without first seeking our consent. It may also be illegal to prune a tree planted on private land, even by the owner of that tree or land, if the species of tree is protected by NSW legislation.  

Trees that are protected in this way are called "declared trees" and these protected species are detailed in the Development Control Plan for the area in which they are planted. 

What to do if you believe a tree has been illegally pruned, removed, poisoned or vandalised 

If you believe a tree has been illegally pruned, removed, poisoned or vandalised, you can report this to the Tree Management Team. 

When lodging a report: 

• Provide exact information as to what type of activity is occurring, and at what time 
• Record information – photographs etc. to assist in your complaint 

What happens next?

Council will: 

• Conduct an inspection of the tree to identify the species and the pruning undertaken 
• Gather evidence to ensure any pruning outside of consent is regulated 
• Apply penalties and/or warnings for illegal pruning/work 
• May seek additional planting if one or more trees have been removed without consent 

Report via our Trees & Vegetation page.

Contact Customer Service on 4221 6111 or send us an email at council@shellharbour.nsw.gov.au