Yarra tree removal rules
Everything you need to know before removing or pruning a tree in the Yarra 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 Yarra?
Trees about 40cm trunk (diameter at ground level or 1.5m height) or larger are generally protected and need approval.
Yarra General Local Law (Part 14) protects significant trees on private land defined by 400mm trunk diameter at ground level or 1.5m height. Also protects individually-listed and group-listed trees on the Significant Tree Register. Council maintains Urban Forest Register. Criteria strictly applied; permit required for removal/damage/destruction/lopping. Assessment considers health/safety, structural integrity, property damage, development plans.
When you may not need approval
- Cutting, trimming or pruning to comply with other statutory provisions
- Council removal of Council-owned trees
- Emergency situations subject to assessment
How to apply
Application to Council; assessed by Authorized Officer against Significant Tree Policy; approval grounds documented in procedures manual
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 Yarra?
Fill in the tree details and we'll estimate whether you likely need council approval.