Goulburn Mulwaree Council tree removal rules
Everything you need to know before removing or pruning a tree in the Goulburn Mulwaree 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 Goulburn Mulwaree Council?
Trees about 3m tall or 40cm trunk (circumference at ground level) or larger are generally protected and need approval.
All trees meeting size criteria are declared protected under Biodiversity and Conservation SEPP; council can only grant permits where specific assessment criteria are met; protections do not apply to certain exemptions like dangerous/dead/dying trees and those authorized under other legislation.
When you may not need approval
- dangerous trees
- trees authorised under other legislation (including 10/50)
- weeds and priority weeds
- dead or dying trees
- pruning up to 10% canopy per year
- removal within 3m of existing building
- boundary survey/fence clearing
- fruit trees for consumption
- council-owned land with council approval
How to apply
Applications require Tree Removal Application Form, supporting documents may include Tree Plan and Tree Assessment Report; Council assesses based on tree condition, structural damage, threatened species impacts, and other factors; public notification not required
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 Goulburn Mulwaree Council?
Fill in the tree details and we'll estimate whether you likely need council approval.