Kingston tree removal rules
Everything you need to know before removing or pruning a tree in the Kingston 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: Planning and Environment Act 1987 + local planning scheme overlays (Vegetation Protection, Significant Landscape, Environmental Significance); VicSmart fast-track permits.
Compiled from the council's published rules and cross-checked. Always confirm with the council.
Which trees are protected in Kingston?
Trees about 35cm trunk (circumference threshold: 110cm or more circumference requires Local Law permit) or larger are generally protected and need approval.
Kingston has a Community Local Law protecting trees on private land based on circumference (110cm or more). Multi-stemmed trees and trees planted as permit conditions also protected. Additionally, the Victorian Planning Scheme Clause 52.37 (effective 15 September 2025) provides state-wide tree protection for residential and mixed-use zones with height/canopy/trunk size criteria. Kingston also maintains a Significant Tree Register of 84 listed trees (register-based protection, not size-based). Local exemptions: trees under 110cm circumference can be removed without permit.
When you may not need approval
- Trees under 110cm circumference
- Noxious weeds (as defined by Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994)
How to apply
Local Law permit application required for trees meeting criteria; $125 per tree (free for pensioners); approval may require replanting condition; appeal available via online submission with independent arborist assessment
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 Kingston?
Fill in the tree details and we'll estimate whether you likely need council approval.