Frankston tree removal rules
Everything you need to know before removing or pruning a tree in the Frankston 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 and Environment Act 1987 + local planning scheme overlays (Vegetation Protection, Significant Landscape, Environmental Significance); VicSmart fast-track permits.
Compiled from the council's published rules and cross-checked. Always confirm with the council.
Which trees are protected in Frankston?
Trees about 35cm trunk (council states ~110cm trunk circumference) or larger are generally protected and need approval.
Frankston City Council Local Law No. 22 - Tree Protection Local Law (made 8 April 2016, fact sheet updated 4 July 2018, application form updated August 2022). Protects trees on private land with trunk circumference 110 cm or greater measured at base. Council exercises discretion on permit approval based on specific tree characteristics and context.
When you may not need approval
- circumference less than 110 cm
- environmental weed species (Schedule 2)
- tree requiring planning permit under Frankston Planning Scheme
- pruning not exceeding one-third of crown
- subject to exemption conditions
How to apply
Application with form, property plan, and fee to council. Council assesses: tree type, aesthetic effect on neighbourhood, health/condition/hazard status. Discretionary approval based on assessment.
Other rules that can override the above
- Planning scheme overlays (VPO / SLO / ESO).
- Bushfire (BMO) clearing entitlements in designated areas.
- Federal EPBC Act for nationally listed species/communities.
Do I need a permit in Frankston?
Fill in the tree details and we'll estimate whether you likely need council approval.