Yes, but under certain conditions
Under what conditions?
The tree can be removed without council approval if;
- Trees that are less than 4 metres in height and have a trunk diameter of less than 200 millimetres, when measured at a height of 1 metre from the ground.
- The removal of torn limbs or dead wood, such as individual branches, but does not include whole trees.
Exempt trees
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.
See table below
Does my council have an exempt tree list?
Yes, see table below
Common Name
Bamboo
Privet
Rubber
Loquat
Banana
Umbrella
Sumac
Mulberry
Tree of Heaven
Cocos Palm
Oleander
Avocado
Norfolk Island Hibiscus
Mango
What happens when you remove trees without a permit?
According to the council, there are trees that require permits to remove or work on them.
As a result, removing such trees without a permit is an offence and you will be faced by heavy fines.
Any other tree damage such as poisoning, pruning or vandalism that is not authorised is considered illegal.
What to do in case you realize a tree has illegally damaged?
The council provides an avenue for people to report any case of illegal damage of trees which can entail removal, pruning, poisoning, or vandalism.
You are required to examine the tree and provide details of the type of activity that has been done and time.
You are also required to provide some record information such as photographs to support the claims.
Follow this link to report your case.
Who removes trees on public land and streets?
The council owns and manages trees on public lands such as parks and streets.
As a result, it is their responsibility to manage and control them. In case there is a need for removal, pruning or any other management work, they do it.
However, this is only done under appropriate circumstances.
How to remove a tree for free in Leichhardt Council?
There are a few steps you can follow to help you remove a tree for free in the Leichhardt council.
- Advertise to give the tree or parts of it to anyone who is willing to remove for free. You can advertise online or on billboards. Tree services or individuals interested will approach you.
- In case the tree is interfering with power lines you can have it removed for free. All you have to do is contact the energy company responsible for the power lines and they will remove it for free.
How to apply for a tree removal permit
Go to the above online form and fill it out to make a formal request for tree removal approval.
Leichhardt Council contact details
Phone: 0293925000
Mailing Address: PO Box 45 Leichhardt NSW 2040
Website: http://www.leichhardt.nsw.gov.au
Leichhardt Tree Preservation order - TPO
The above is a summary of your local Councils tree preservation order. Please follow the link for the full document.
FAQ's
There are a few ways to go about it. You should always go for a qualified arborist with plenty of experience. Make sure they have more than 20 reviews online and have a minimum score of 4.5 stars or great.
We can match you with a top-voted tree removal service in Sydney here. Just enter your postcode and a few details about your tree job and get 3 obligation-free quotes from the local top voted contractors.
The cost to remove a tree will depend on a few different factors. Things like the size of the tree, number of branches, the species and location on your property will all play a role.
The average cost of tree removal is $871. But the real range is $225 – $4,500. Make sure you get at least 3 quotes before deciding on one company.
Tree removal and pruning is difficult to quote just by a description over the phone. Same goes for sending pics of the tree. This is because it is hard to gauge the actual size of a tree from images as well as look at access for machinery. An on-site inspection is needed to make sure you are given a fair price.
You may prune any branches that are hanging over your yard from your neighbour’s side, just as long as you are working within the cities Tree Preservation Order.
You may remove your neighbour’s branches, but if it violates council tree pruning laws, you will get a fine. You are best speaking to a local arborist first before proceeding.
Tree trimming will vary depending on the tree, number of branches and access. The average price of tree trimming is $429, but that the true price range is $75 – $1,800.
You can check out our Tree Trimming Cost Guide here to get a better idea of tree trimming cost by tree size. Or you can use this Free Service and compare local top rated tree service actual quotes.
Author: Ben McInerney is a qualified arborist with over 15 years of industry experience. He uses his in-depth knowledge of the tree service industry to give readers to most accurate information on tree service costs and helps to educate them about the benefits of using a certified arborist for tree trimming and removal work.
