Mansfield tree removal rules
Everything you need to know before removing or pruning a tree in the Mansfield 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 Mansfield?
Trees about 60cm trunk (diameter at 1 metre above ground level; OR cumulative trunk diameter; OR circumference at base) or larger are generally protected and need approval.
Section 29 of Mansfield Shire Council Community Local Law 2026-2035 protects "Substantial and/or Significant Trees" on all land (including private). A tree qualifies if it has: (a) trunk diameter 60cm+ measured 1m above ground, OR (b) cumulative trunk diameter 60cm+, OR (c) trunk circumference at base 2m+. Permit requirement applies to removal, destruction, pruning, ringbarking, or other interference. Application requires arborist report detailing requirement for works. Decision guidelines consider location, previous removals, biodiversity impacts, cultural significance, visual amenity effects, and consultation views.
When you may not need approval
- Valid planning permit authorization
- Trees in Bushfire Prone Area or BMO with bushfire exemption compliance
- Works required by law or authorized officer direction
- Council staff or contractors under council authority
- Emergency services official duties
- State or federal legislation authorization
- Trees planted for timber production
How to apply
Tier 2: Permit by Application for removal/destruction/pruning/interference. Tier 0: No permit for lopping/pruning up to 1/3 foliage if no trunk or major branch damage, only one occurrence, maintenance only.
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 Mansfield?
Fill in the tree details and we'll estimate whether you likely need council approval.
Suburbs in Mansfield
- Ancona
- Barjarg
- Barwite
- Bonnie Doon
- Boorolite
- Bridge Creek
- Creek Junction
- Delatite
- Enochs Point
- Gaffneys Creek
- Goughs Bay
- Howes Creek
- Howitt Plains
- Howqua
- Howqua Hills
- Howqua Inlet
- Jamieson
- Kevington
- Knockwood
- Lake Eildon
- Lima South
- Macs Cove
- Maindample
- Mansfield
- Matlock
- Merrijig (Mansfield - Vic.)
- Merton
- Mirimbah
- Mount Buller
- Mountain Bay
- Piries
- Reynard
- Sawmill Settlement
- Tolmie
- Woodfield
- Woods Point