Cumberland Council tree removal rules
Everything you need to know before removing or pruning a tree in the Cumberland 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 Cumberland Council?
Trees about 3.6m tall or larger are generally protected and need approval.
In Cumberland, most 'woody' trees over 3.6m high need Council's written approval to remove or prune; some non-native trees and trees close to buildings may not.
When you may not need approval
- Many non-native trees
- Trees growing close to buildings
- Dead or dangerous trees (confirm with Council)
How to apply
Lodge a Tree Works Application with Cumberland Council before removing or pruning a protected tree.
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 Cumberland Council?
Fill in the tree details and we'll estimate whether you likely need council approval.