Burke tree removal rules
Everything you need to know before removing or pruning a tree in the Burke 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: Planning Act 2016 + council local laws and Vegetation Protection Orders; Vegetation Management Act 1999 (mainly rural/native vegetation).
We're still confirming this council's exact rules — any figures shown are a general guide only. Confirm with the council.
Which trees are protected in Burke?
Burke generally does not require council approval to remove trees on private property — its tree controls don't apply to private land. Other laws (native vegetation, heritage, threatened species) may still apply, so confirm with the council.
Burke Shire Planning Scheme 2020 contains no specific tree removal protections or size thresholds for private residential land. Local Law No. 3 (Community and Environmental Management) 2013 exists but full text not publicly accessible. Tree removal restrictions limited to state-level provisions and bushfire hazard vegetation management in development contexts.
When you may not need approval
- Dead or dangerous trees (council-dependent).
- Trees not covered by a Vegetation Protection Order or local law.
Other rules that can override the above
- Council Vegetation Protection Orders / significant tree registers.
- State Vegetation Management Act (native vegetation).
- Federal EPBC Act.
Do I need a permit in Burke?
Fill in the tree details and we'll estimate whether you likely need council approval.