Yes, it is possible to remove some trees in Stonnington Council area without a permit, but under certain conditions.
Below is a summary of the Councils Tree Preservation Order TPO.
Under what conditions?
A Significant Tree Work Permit must be obtained before a person removes, prunes, damages, kills or destroys a Significant Tree (including its roots) under the City of Stonnington General Local Law 2008 (No.1).
A Significant Tree is any Tree listed in Council’s ‘Significant Tree Register’ or is a tree:
- With a trunk circumference of 180 centimetres or greater measured at its base.
- With a total circumference of all its trunks of 180 centimetres or greater measured at its base.
- With a trunk circumference of 140 centimetres or greater measured at 1.5 metres above its base.
- With a total circumference of all its trunks of 140 centimetres or greater measured at 1.5 metres above its base.
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.
Why Permits?
One of the things that identifies Stonnington is its well-established parks and streets lined with trees.
As a result, the city council would like to maintain this look all through for a healthy, safe and good urban forest characterized by diversity.
90% of these trees however are owned privately.
As a result, there is a need to regulate the removal through permits to make sure the forest cover remains.
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.
Things required when applying for a tree removal permit
If you are planning to make, a removal application remember to provide the following.
- Make sure that you provide an application fee.
- Proof of your identity.
- Proof of ownership of the respective property.
- If the tree is within an area under Owner’s Corporation management, then you are required to provide a letter from Property Manager for authorization and indicating the OC number as well as supporting the tree works proposed on the application.
Refer to the following link to learn about the latest fees on applications.
Conditions after a permit is granted
Once you get the permit, expect the following conditions to be indicated.
- The expiry date for the permit.
- Notifications to residents on tree removals.
- Qualifications required for the person doing the work.
- Insurance requirements for the person doing the work.
- Replacement trees conditions.
Stonnington Council contact details
Phone: 8290 1333
Website: http://www.stonnington.vic.gov.au
Stonnington Tree Preservation order - TPO
The above is a summary of your local Councils tree preservation order. Please follow the link for the full document.
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.
