Hay Shire Council tree removal rules
Everything you need to know before removing or pruning a tree in the Hay 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 Hay Shire Council?
In Hay Shire Council, removing or significantly pruning a protected tree generally needs council approval unless an exemption applies (see below).
Hay Shire Council requires approval to cut, poison or remove trees or vegetation; specific size thresholds and exemptions are not published online and must be confirmed by contacting the council directly (02 6990 1100) — the official source confirms this but does not detail exemptions.
When you may not need approval
- Dead/dying trees (typical)
- Trees within 3m of dwelling (typical for some NSW councils)
- Routine pruning (typical exemptions under AS 4373-2007)
How to apply
Contact Hay Shire Council on 02 6990 1100 or email mail@hay.nsw.gov.au to discuss your tree removal proposal and determine what approval is required for your property.
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 Hay Shire Council?
Fill in the tree details and we'll estimate whether you likely need council approval.