Do I need a permit to remove a tree in the Greater Geelong area?

Yes, usually — Greater Geelong 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 Greater Geelong?

Dead trees and trees that are an imminent risk can often be removed without a permit (council-dependent). Properties without a relevant overlay may not need a planning permit — but local laws can still apply.

Greater Geelong tree removal rules

Everything you need to know before removing or pruning a tree in the Greater Geelong 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.

… Being confirmed

We're still confirming this council's exact rules — any figures shown are a general guide only. Confirm with the council.

Which trees are protected in Greater Geelong?

Victoria has no council-wide tree-size rule. Whether you need a planning permit to remove a tree depends on the planning overlays on your specific property — such as a Vegetation Protection Overlay (VPO), Significant Landscape Overlay (SLO) or Environmental Significance Overlay (ESO) — plus any local law for significant or street trees. Check your address on VicPlan (mapshare.vic.gov.au) and your council's planning scheme.

When you may not need approval

Dead trees and trees that are an imminent risk can often be removed without a permit (council-dependent).
Properties without a relevant overlay may not need a planning permit — but local laws can still apply.

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.

Do I need a permit in Greater Geelong?

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