Yes, but under certain conditions
Under what conditions?
The tree can be removed without council approval if;
You can remove trees or clear vegetation in the following circumstances:
- Height equal to or exceeding six metres;
- A canopy width equal to or exceeding four metres;
- For a single-trunk tree species, a trunk circumference equal to or exceeding one metre at the height of one metre above ground level; or
- for a multi-trunk tree species, a combined trunk circumference (measured around the outer girth of the group of trunks) equal to or exceeding one (1) metre at the height of one (1) metre above ground level.
- If the tree is dying or dead or is a risk to human life or property and is not required as the habitat of native fauna – Assessing wildlife habitat;
- if the tree is growing within two (2) metres of any building (excluding an outbuilding) measured horizontally from the closest point of the trunk at one (1) metre from ground level to the closest point of the vertical alignment of the building structure which must be the eave, guttering or fixed awning of the building;
- tree works to give effect to a development consent that permits the pruning or removal of the subject 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.
Does Randwick council have an exempt tree list?
Yes, see table below
Common Name
Bamboo
Privet
Rubber
Evergreen Alder
Hackberry
Umbrella
Willow
Cotoneaster
Leyland Cypress
Cocos Palm
Oleander
African olive
Coral Tree
Norfolk Island Hibiscus
Mulberry
Ochna
Poplars
Sumac
Trees on Public Land
These are trees growing in public areas such as parks, reserves, streets and open spaces.
They are managed and maintained by the council.
Maintenance activities include planting, watering, pruning when necessary, removing when dead or structurally unsound, or clearance when appropriate.
The council encourages residents to report any cases involving trees on public land.
If you want action taken on trees on public land, you should file an online request indicating your name, address and contacts, the location of the trees, and reasons for removal or pruning.
Here is a link to the online request service.
Trees on Rented Property
In case you need to remove or work on trees growing on a rented property you will need two main things.
You will need to get consent from the property owner and apply for a permit. The consent should accompany the application letter.
Trees Overhanging Public Area
The council monitors any trees that overgrow and overhang on public land. When it is council trees, they will be responsible for pruning or removing them.
In cases where it is private trees, the council will contact the owner and request them to either prune or in some cases remove in case the overhanging tree is obstructing a public area.
Tree Removal Permit Application Fee
For 1 tree – $76
Per any additional tree – $28.
How to apply for a tree removal permit
http://www.randwick.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0011/23150/Tree-Permit-Application-Form.PDF
Go to the above online form and fill it out to make a formal request for tree removal approval.
Can I review determination?
Yes. The council of Randwick offers a chance to review a determination on tree permits. All you have to do is make sure that you fill the form with all the necessary details.
You also have to defend your case for the review to be accepted. Here is a link to the form.
https://www.randwick.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0019/13816/Review-of-Determination-of-a-Tree-Permit-Application-Form.PDF
Randwick Council contact details
Phone: 1300722542
Mailing Address: 30 Frances Street Randwick NSW 2031
Website: http://www.randwick.nsw.gov.au
Randwick Tree Preservation order - TPO
The above is a summary of your local Councils tree preservation order. Please follow the link for the full document.
http://www.randwick.nsw.gov.au/environment-and-sustainability/trees/preserving-our-trees
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.
