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

Yes, usually — Bass Coast 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 Bass Coast?

Actions authorised under Planning Scheme permit Actions required by other legislation Actions in accordance with Council direction Council Authorised Officer emergency actions (immediate risk to life, health, property)

Bass Coast tree removal rules

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

Legal basis: Planning and Environment Act 1987 + local planning scheme overlays (Vegetation Protection, Significant Landscape, Environmental Significance); VicSmart fast-track permits.

● Researched· last checked 2026-06-29official source ↗

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

Which trees are protected in Bass Coast?

Trees about 49cm trunk (council states ~155cm trunk circumference) or larger are generally protected and need approval.

Protected Trees defined by trunk circumference threshold (155 cm). Significant Trees defined by register listing assessed against 12 qualitative criteria (no simple size cut-off). Local Law No. 1 Neighbourhood Amenity 2022, effective 1 January 2023. Penalties up to 20 penalty units for breaches. Tree protection zone (12 × trunk circumference radius) also regulated.

When you may not need approval

Actions authorised under Planning Scheme permit
Actions required by other legislation
Actions in accordance with Council direction
Council Authorised Officer emergency actions (immediate risk to life, health, property)

How to apply

Application through Council website or Customer Service Centers. Processing within 14 working days subject to site inspection and demand. Assessment may include Council Arborist review. 28-day appeal period after refusal.

Other rules that can override the above

Planning scheme overlays (VPO / SLO / ESO).
Bushfire (BMO) clearing entitlements in designated areas.
Federal EPBC Act for nationally listed species/communities.

Bass Coast tree removal rules

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Which trees are protected in Bass Coast?

When you may not need approval

How to apply

Other rules that can override the above

Do I need a permit in Bass Coast?

Suburbs in Bass Coast