Tree Removal Adelaide Council Regulations

Updated: 1 Oct 2021

Can I remove a tree without a council permit?

Yes, but under certain conditions.

Under what conditions?

A tree can be removed without council approval if;

• The tree has a trunk circumference of 2.0m or less measured at a point 1.0m above natural ground level

• Trees with multiple trunks, it is those with trunks with a total circumference of 2.0m or more and an average circumference of 625mm or more measured at a point 1.0m above natural ground level.

A number of tree species are exempt from regulated tree controls. Please see the tree exemption list below.

In addition to the above, there is no need to seek council approval to remove a tree in Adelaide if:

• A tree is dead

• The tree is within 20 meters of a dwelling in Medium or High Bushfire Protection Areas.

• The trees are located within 10 meters of an existing dwelling or existing in-ground swimming pool unless it is one of the two following species of trees:
  a) Agonis flexuosa (Willow Myrtle)
  b) Eucalyptus (any tree of the species)

There are trees that can be removed no matter what their size or condition as they are considered a pest by your local council. The above-listed conditions do not apply.

Does my council have an exempt tree list?

Yes, see table below

www.sa.gov.au/planning/developmentapplications

Go to the above online form and fill it out to make a formal request for tree removal approval.

There are two cases when it comes to tree removal. If a tree happens to damage your structure or property, and you have insurance, insurance companies are willing to cover the costs for its removal.

However, many companies are willing to cover a cost of between $500 and $1,000.

In cases where you want to remove a tree yet it has not caused any damages to the property, you will have to pay for the services.

Under such circumstances, it is the responsibility of the neighbour to fill a claim with his or her insurance company.

The responsible insurance company will take care of any damages provided that the tree fell as a result of natural causes.

What about Tree Trimming in Adelaide city?

Phone: (08) 8203 7990
Website: https://www.sa.gov.au

The above is a summary of your local Councils tree preservation order. Please follow the link for the full document.

https://www.sa.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0003/17571/Protecting_Reg_and_Sig_Trees_Comm_Info.pdf