Do I need a permit to remove a tree in the Central Coast Council area?

Yes, usually — Central Coast Council requires approval to remove or significantly prune a protected tree under its Development Control Plan, unless an exemption (such as a dead or dangerous tree) applies. Check the details on this page and confirm with the council.

What trees are exempt in Central Coast Council?

dead or dying trees (with AQF3+ arborist documentation) risk to human life or property (with evidence and photos) trees within 3m of approved structures minor pruning up to 10% foliage per season, branches ≤50mm diameter per AS4373-2007 trees under 3m height

Central Coast Council tree removal rules

Everything you need to know before removing or pruning a tree in the Central Coast 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.

Check my tree Official council page ↗

Legal basis: State Environmental Planning Policy (Biodiversity and Conservation) 2021, Ch. 2 (Vegetation in Non-Rural Areas) + each council's Development Control Plan (DCP).

● Researched· last checked 2026-06-27official source ↗

Compiled from the council's published rules and cross-checked. Always confirm with the council.

Which trees are protected in Central Coast Council?

Trees about 8cm trunk (DBH (1.4m)) or larger are generally protected and need approval.

Central Coast Council exempts trees under 75mm trunk diameter (at 1.4m) OR under 3m height; exemptions include dead trees (automatic), dying trees (with AQF3 confirmation), trees within 3m of structures, and pruning up to 10% foliage per season per AS4373-2007, but bushfire-zone 10/50 scheme allows broader removal within 10m of homes.

When you may not need approval

dead or dying trees (with AQF3+ arborist documentation)
risk to human life or property (with evidence and photos)
trees within 3m of approved structures
minor pruning up to 10% foliage per season, branches ≤50mm diameter per AS4373-2007
trees under 3m height

How to apply

Submit Private Tree Works Application (for up to 5 trees) at council offices or by download/mail, with annual fees charged per council's schedule. Applications assessed against DCP Chapter 3.5 criteria.

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 Central Coast Council?

Fill in the tree details and we'll estimate whether you likely need council approval.