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

Yes, usually — Stonnington 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 Stonnington?

Trees less than 5m height or trunk circumference less than 0.5m measured 1m above ground Trees presenting immediate risk of personal injury or property damage Removal necessary for emergency access or emergency works Electricity line clearance per Electricity Safety Act code of practice

Stonnington tree removal rules

Everything you need to know before removing or pruning a tree in the Stonnington 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: 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 Stonnington?

Trees about 45cm trunk (council states ~140cm trunk circumference) or larger are generally protected and need approval.

Stonnington protects "Significant Trees" defined by trunk circumference: 140cm at 1.4m height OR 180cm at base, or listed on Significant Tree Register. Local law (General Local Law 2018) applies to private land. Non-compliance penalties: up to $2,000 plus council may execute works at owner's expense. Council has active enforcement program for unlawful removals.

When you may not need approval

Trees less than 5m height or trunk circumference less than 0.5m measured 1m above ground
Trees presenting immediate risk of personal injury or property damage
Removal necessary for emergency access or emergency works
Electricity line clearance per Electricity Safety Act code of practice

How to apply

Tree Work Permit required for removal/pruning. Application to Stonnington Service Centres or PO Box 58 Malvern. External arboricultural inspection by consultant. Processing: approximately 15 working days. Fees: $77 per tree (pruning), $102.50 per tree (removal).

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 Stonnington?

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