Yes, it is possible to remove a tree in Burwood without a council permit, but only under certain conditions.
The below is a summary of the Burwood councils Tree Preservation Order (TPO) on the removal of trees locally.
Under what conditions?
A Tree can be removed if it:
- Has a height equal to and no exceeding 4m, or a branch spread equal to or not exceeding 2m,
- Or a trunk diameter exceeding 150mm measured at a distance 1.4m above the ground.
Any tree outside these parameters will require council approval before tree removal.
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
Bamboo
Privet
Rubber
Loquat
Sumac
Umbrella
Willow
Cottonwood
Black locust
Cocos Palm
Mulberry
Banana
Citrus
Fruit trees
Burwood Development Control Plan
It is a plan provided by Burwood city council indicating various regulations and directions on the handling of trees in the city.
Some of the guidelines include which trees should be removed with a permit or not.
What happens when you remove a tree without a permit where required?
Since there are certain guidelines put in place by the council through BDCP on trees, any removal of trees without a permit where it is required is considered an offence.
In case you are found guilty of such an offence, expect to pay heavy fines.
Trimming of trees also comes with its own rules, failure to comply with them, you will be prosecuted.
Requirements when applying for a tree removal permit
When making an application for a tree removal permit in Burwood, you should understand that there are several things that are required. That is why there is an application form.
The council will require you to prove that the tree you want to remove should be removed.
As a result, trees that require permits are regulated, you have to get a professional arborist to support your claim for your application to be approved.
The council is also responsible for doing an inspection on your property to gather enough evidence to support your claims before they can make a decision.
Find Arborists in Burwood Council
You click on the following link to find a list of tree loppers and arborists in Burwood.
https://www.treeloppers.net.au/allsuburbOrder.aspx?order=town&Council=BURWOOD
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.
Burwood City Council contact details
Burwood City 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.burwood.nsw.gov.au/environment/our_environment/trees.html
