South Perth tree removal rules
Everything you need to know before removing or pruning a tree in the South Perth 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: Local Planning Schemes and local laws; Environmental Protection Act 1986 (native vegetation clearing).
Compiled from the council's published rules and cross-checked. Always confirm with the council.
Which trees are protected in South Perth?
Trees about 8m tall or 48cm trunk (diameter (converted from policy specification of 1.5m circumference)) or larger are generally protected and need approval.
Local Planning Policy 3.2 adopted 26 August 2025. Applies to all zoned land in City of South Perth, including all private residential properties. A "Regulated Tree" is defined by three OR criteria: height ≥8m, canopy diameter ≥6m, or trunk circumference ≥1.5m (not on weed register). Severe penalties under Planning and Development Act 2005: $200,000 (individuals), $1,000,000 (corporations). Policy also recognizes Council's Significant Tree Register for trees of special significance (separate protection). Council controls tree removal on private land via development approval process—no exemption for private land ownership.
When you may not need approval
- Tree does not meet Regulated Tree definition
- Urgent works for public safety, infrastructure safety, essential services, or environment protection
- Approved Bushfire Management Plan works
- Maintenance pruning per AS 4373-2007 (dead/diseased only, <10% canopy first prune of year, fruit trees for production, branches <100mm diameter, minor crown maintenance)
- Weed species (State or local area register) or palm tree
- Public work
How to apply
Development application required ($147 fee). Applicant must provide: scaled site plans, photographs, arborist reports demonstrating tree health/safety issues or development redesign unfeasibility. Assessment includes tree health/species/location, ecological values, streetscape contribution, Tree Protection Zone compliance, and replacement plans. Council applies general presumption against tree damaging activity except maintenance pruning.
Other rules that can override the above
- Council significant tree registers / planning scheme provisions.
- State native vegetation clearing permits.
- Federal EPBC Act.
Do I need a permit in South Perth?
Fill in the tree details and we'll estimate whether you likely need council approval.