Bayside Council tree removal rules
Everything you need to know before removing or pruning a tree in the Bayside Council area — which trees are protected, the main exemptions, and how to apply for approval. This is the authoritative summary we keep for this council; always confirm against the official source linked below.
Legal basis: State Environmental Planning Policy (Biodiversity and Conservation) 2021, Ch. 2 (Vegetation in Non-Rural Areas) + each council's Development Control Plan (DCP).
Compiled from the council's published rules and cross-checked. Always confirm with the council.
Which trees are protected in Bayside Council?
Trees about 3m tall or 30cm trunk (diameter at 1m or 1.4m (inconsistent in council docs)) or larger are generally protected and need approval.
Bayside Council requires permits for trees exceeding 3m height or 300mm trunk diameter (measured at 1.4m); exemptions are trees under both thresholds, fruit trees, and species in Appendix 3, with arborist reports required to justify removal of dying/dead/dangerous trees (they do not automatically exempt these).
When you may not need approval
- under 3m height AND under 300mm trunk
- fruit trees
- exempt species (Appendix 3)
- minor pruning per AS 4373-2007
- dead/dying/dangerous trees with arborist report
How to apply
Apply online via Bayside ePathway or submit form at Customer Service Centre. Fee: $120.50 (1–3 trees), $244 (4–10 trees), $396 (10+ trees). Arborist report required for 10+ trees or dying/dead/dangerous specimens. Process is individual assessment.
Other rules that can override the above
- RFS 10/50 Vegetation Clearing scheme — in a designated bush-fire area you may be able to clear trees within 10m of your home (and underlying vegetation within 50m) without council approval. Check eligibility with the NSW RFS online tool; it does not override threatened-species or federal law.
- Heritage items and heritage conservation areas — trees are usually protected regardless of size and most exemptions fall away.
- Threatened species, endangered ecological communities and Aboriginal places — exemptions generally do not apply.
- Federal EPBC Act — separate Commonwealth approval can be required if removal would significantly impact a nationally listed species or community.
Do I need a permit in Bayside Council?
Fill in the tree details and we'll estimate whether you likely need council approval.