Federation Council tree removal rules
Everything you need to know before removing or pruning a tree in the Federation 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 Federation Council?
Trees about 4.5m tall or larger are generally protected and need approval.
Federation Council requires approval for trees over 4.5m tall or branches exceeding 3m; certain native species listed in Schedule 4 also receive additional species-based protection.
When you may not need approval
- Branches under 3m long
- Trees under 4.5m tall
How to apply
Private Tree Permit application lodged on NSW Planning Portal
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 Federation Council?
Fill in the tree details and we'll estimate whether you likely need council approval.