The Vegetation Removal Permit applies to the removal of trees and vegetation that is not associated with development. For all tree and vegetation removal associated with a development – (i.e construction of a dwelling) you will need to include the tree/Vegetation removal details in your development application.
All tree/vegetation removal not associated with development on Rural Zoned Land is to be referred to Local Land Services for assessment under the Local Land Services Act. Please contact Local Land Services on 1300 795 299 for further information.
The Biodiversity Offsets Scheme threshold applies to all privately owned land within the following zones Environmental (E2, E3 & E4) or Private Recreation (RE2). Please contact our Environmental Team on 02 6023 8111 prior to completing your Vegetation Removal Permit Application.
A Vegetation Removal Permit is required for the pruning or removal of a tree over 4.5m high or 3m branch spread before any work is carried out.
A Vegetation Removal Permit is not required for the following:
Clearance of vegetation by electricity suppliers undertaken in accordance with the Electricity Supply (Safety Plans) Regulation 1997 does not require a Vegetation Removal Permit.
A tree not in a Heritage Conservation Area but within 3m of a significant building
The removal of any tree listed as a priority weed under the Biosecurity Act 2015 and identified in the Murray Regional Strategic Weed Management Plan.
Priority trees include:
- Castor Oil Plant (Ricinus communis)
- Willow species (Salix spp.)
- Rhus Tree (Toxicodendron succedaneum)
- Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima)
Properties identified in heritage and conservation areas may require a development application to remove any vegetation. Please contact our Town Planning Team for more information.
If you have issues with trees on your neighbour’s property contact the Community Justice Centre. If all mediation attempts between neighbours fail, contact NSW Land and Environment Court
As part of the approval conditions of the Vegetation Removal Permit, compensatory planting may be required. The number and type of replacement plants will generally be determined onsite with the landowner.
If you move, damage or lop a tree without Council’s permission, you may be liable to a significant fine. Penalties issued by the Land and Environment Court can attract maximum fines in excess of $100,000.
Trees on public land, including nature strips are Council assets and can only be pruned, removed or otherwise interfered with by AlburyCity.