Ballina Shire Council tree removal rules

When you may not need approval

• ✓trees within 3m of existing structure
• ✓dead or dying trees
• ✓immediate risk to life/property
• ✓undesirable species (Camphor Laurel, privet, African olive, etc.)
• ✓non-native food production trees
• ✓dead branches ≤150mm circumference
• ✓State Forest and utility trees
• ✓10/50 vegetation clearing (Rural Fires Act 1997)
• ✓previously authorized works

How to apply

Development consent required; applications must include prescribed fee, property description, applicant/owner details, site plan, vegetation description with species/quantity/approximate height, and supporting arborist assessment report (if health uncertain) or biodiversity report (for conservation zones/bushland).

Other rules that can override the above

• •RFS 10/50 Vegetation Clearing scheme — in a designated bush-fire area you may be able to clear trees within 10m of your home (and underlying vegetation within 50m) without council approval. Check eligibility with the NSW RFS online tool; it does not override threatened-species or federal law.
• •Heritage items and heritage conservation areas — trees are usually protected regardless of size and most exemptions fall away.
• •Threatened species, endangered ecological communities and Aboriginal places — exemptions generally do not apply.
• •Federal EPBC Act — separate Commonwealth approval can be required if removal would significantly impact a nationally listed species or community.