Central Darling Shire Council tree removal rules
Everything you need to know before removing or pruning a tree in the Central Darling Shire Council 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: State Environmental Planning Policy (Biodiversity and Conservation) 2021, Ch. 2 (Vegetation in Non-Rural Areas) + each council's Development Control Plan (DCP).
Compiled from the council's published rules and cross-checked. Always confirm with the council.
Which trees are protected in Central Darling Shire Council?
Trees about 29cm trunk (council states ~90cm trunk circumference) or larger are generally protected and need approval.
Central Darling DCP (2024) does not contain numeric tree removal thresholds; only requires retention of significant trees without definition. Tree removal on private land is controlled by state legislation (Part 5A Local Land Services Act 2013), not council. Rural landholder allowable activities include Pasture Expansion which permits removal of trees up to 90cm DBHOB; larger trees are protected. Central Darling is served by Western Local Land Services region.
When you may not need approval
- Allowable activities under Division 4 and Schedule 5A of Part 5A LLS Act; trees over 90cm DBHOB must be retained
How to apply
Native Vegetation Panel approval required for clearing not meeting allowable activities under Part 5A of Local Land Services Act 2013; Pasture Expansion under Land Management Code allows removal of trees up to 90cm DBHOB
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.
Do I need a permit in Central Darling Shire Council?
Fill in the tree details and we'll estimate whether you likely need council approval.