Kiama Council tree removal rules
Everything you need to know before removing or pruning a tree in the Kiama 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 Kiama Council?
Trees about 5m tall or 20cm trunk (diameter at 1 metre above ground) or larger are generally protected and need approval.
Trees in heritage items or conservation areas are explicitly excluded from exemptions and receive additional protection; special design criteria apply to Indigenous Fig Trees, Palms, and Norfolk Island Pines.
When you may not need approval
- exempt species list
- emergency works
- dead trees
- previously approved removals
- noxious weeds
- works by Council/SES/RFS
- works under specified legislation
How to apply
Tree Management Application to Council; assessed against tree condition, structural defects, hazard risk, heritage significance, and environmental impact
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 Kiama Council?
Fill in the tree details and we'll estimate whether you likely need council approval.