Tree removal in Lismore 2480
Thinking of removing or pruning a tree in Lismore? The rules here are set by Lismore City Council. Check whether you likely need approval, then get free quotes from licensed local arborists.
Tree rules in Lismore
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 Lismore City Council?
Trees about 5m tall or 5cm trunk (girth (circumference) at 1m above ground) or larger are generally protected and need approval.
Lismore has TWO tree protection regimes: (1) TPO (Tree Preservation Order) Chapter 14 of 2007 DCP applies to urban/village/business/industrial zones on private AND public land; (2) In rural zones (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1f, 1r), consent required from Northern Rivers Catchment Management Authority under Native Vegetation Act 2003. The rule uses girth/circumference measured at 1m above ground (500mm minimum), not trunk diameter. Protected trees include all trees meeting the size definition in listed zones PLUS Heritage Conservation Area trees, SEPP 44 Koala habitat trees, Protected Native Plants, and SEPP 14 wetland trees. Replacement planting mandatory (2:1 ratio). A newer DCP Chapter 14 (Vegetation Protection) was drafted to replace this but the official accessible version is the 2007 TPO chapter shown here.
When you may not need approval
- dead branches and dead trees
- trees grown for edible fruit
- noxious weeds and environmental weeds
- trees authorized for removal under Rural Fires Act
Do I need a permit in Lismore?
Answer a few questions for an instant, indicative result based on Lismore City Council's rules.
Fill in the tree details and we'll estimate whether you likely need council approval.