The Sutherland Shire Council relaxed some of the rules and regulations surrounding tree removals. It's essential that the company you choose to remove your trees is well versed in these new regulations, and Jonnie at Wolf Trees & Gardens has stayed up to date and current.


Properly Identify any Protected Trees


The first thing you have to do is identify any protected trees before the removal begins. They help maintain the natural vegetation and your region's delicate canopy. These protected trees include:
  • Large Diameter Trees - A large diameter tree is either a single or a multi-trunked tree that has a 100 millimetre or more diameter at one location and a diameter of 500 millimetres or more above the ground level.
  • Bushland Vegetation - Bushland vegetation is any remnant of the surrounding land's naturally occurring vegetation including any mangroves or altered vegetation that resembles the natural flora and fauna's structure. Bushland vegetation includes shrubs, trees of any size, and herbaceous species.
  • Trees by Watercourses or Creeks - Trees within four metres of any creek or watercourses have protection because they prevent erosion.
Pruning Regulations


When you're on your private property, you can prune 10% or less of the tree canopy once per calendar year. You can also prune a branch that grows over a residence's roof to the gutter line without permission from your Council.


Identify Tree Species You Can Remove Without Permission


There are several tree species that you're allowed to remove without the Council's permission. Before you remove it, double check that the tree doesn't have heritage significance. Under the new regulations, there are currently 46 specific tree species the Council allows you to remove without permission.


The 10/50 Clearing Legislation


If you own property within an area with 50/10 clearing entitlement, you can remove trees that are within 10 metres of your home and underlying vegetation and shrubs that are within 50 metres of the home without Council permission.


If you're not sure what type of tree or vegetation you have or if you need your Council's approval to remove it, contact Jonnie at Wolf Trees and Gardens. You can get a fast and free estimate or clarification on your local Council's rules, restrictions, and regulations.