Do I need a permit to remove a tree in the Greater Dandenong area?

Yes, usually — Greater Dandenong requires approval to remove or significantly prune a protected tree under its Development Control Plan, unless an exemption (such as a dead or dangerous tree) applies. Check the details on this page and confirm with the council.

What trees are exempt in Greater Dandenong?

Removal already permitted under Greater Dandenong Planning Scheme with permit obtained Pruning only by minimum AQF level 3 arborist per AS 4373-2007 Immediate risk to people/property assessed by AQF level 5 arborist Salix spp (Willow) declared Noxious Weed under Catchment and Land Protections Act 1994

Greater Dandenong tree removal rules

Everything you need to know before removing or pruning a tree in the Greater Dandenong 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.

Check my tree Official council page ↗

Legal basis: Planning and Environment Act 1987 + local planning scheme overlays (Vegetation Protection, Significant Landscape, Environmental Significance); VicSmart fast-track permits.

● Researched· last checked 2026-06-29official source ↗

Compiled from the council's published rules and cross-checked. Always confirm with the council.

Which trees are protected in Greater Dandenong?

Trees about 40cm trunk (diameter at 1.4 metres above ground level) or larger are generally protected and need approval.

Tree Protection on Private Land Local Law No. 01 of 2023, commenced 21 December 2023. Applies council-wide. Penalty: 20 Penalty Units for removal without permit; additional 2 PU per day for continuing breach. Owner liable even if breach by third party without authorization (unless proves otherwise). Multiple stem trees measured per AS 4970-2009. For enforcement purposes, stump diameter ≥ 50 cm at ground level also counts as Protected Tree.

When you may not need approval

Removal already permitted under Greater Dandenong Planning Scheme with permit obtained
Pruning only by minimum AQF level 3 arborist per AS 4373-2007
Immediate risk to people/property assessed by AQF level 5 arborist
Salix spp (Willow) declared Noxious Weed under Catchment and Land Protections Act 1994

How to apply

Application in prescribed form with fee; Council may require notice to affected persons; discretionary approval based on tree health/value/environmental impact and mitigation measures pursued

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 Greater Dandenong?

Fill in the tree details and we'll estimate whether you likely need council approval.