Yes, it is possible to remove a tree in Mosman NSW without a Council Permit, but under certain conditions.
Under what conditions?
Tree removal is possible without council approval if;
- It is 5m or less in height; or
- Has a circumference of 450mm (150mm in diameter) or less measured 300mm above ground level; or
- Is 2m or more in height, located in a heritage conservation area; or if your tree is a heritage item or form part of a heritage item.
- Private tree ferns (Cyathea australis and Cyathea cooperi) which are 2m or less in height.
- Vegetation and trees on public land including dead material.
- A tree that is a declared noxious weed under the Noxious Weeds Act 1993
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 the table below
Common Name
Willow
Hibiscus
Rubber
Camphor Laurel
Cotoneaster
Umbrella
Citrus
Leyland cypress
Coral Tree
Cocos Palm
Cupressus spp.
Hackberry
Hibiscus
Privet
Mulberry
Oleander
Paw Paw
Prunus
Wild Olive
Tree Replacement rule
The council has a rule for the replacement of trees when removed.
If you will be offered a permit to remove a tree, and there is a room for replacement then you have to replace it.
The replacement of removed trees should be done within a period of 1 month after the removal. Should also be at least 200mm in pot size.
What is the Trees (Dispute Between Neighbours) Act 2006?
It is an act that offers property owners with a channel to have their issues concerning tree disputes other than any other issues affecting their properties heard by the Land and Environment Court.
It also enables the court to make the right decisions in remedying, restraining and preventing damage of property, especially trees.
What is Public Tree Permits?
This is where a permit is offered to have trees on a public land removed. In such cases, the council is very particular on who can remove the trees.
As a result, there are contractors approved by the council to work with public tree permits requirements.
Here is a link.
How to apply for a tree removal permit
http://www.mosman.nsw.gov.au/residents/property/trees/
Go to the above online form and fill it out to make a formal request for tree removal approval.
Mosman Council contact details
Phone: 0299784000
Mailing Address: PO Box 211 Spit Junction NSW 2088
Website: http://www.mosman.nsw.gov.au
Mosman 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.
