Trees

Approval is required to prune/remove all tree(s) equal to or above 5 metres in height, which are not exempt under the Tree Preservation Order.

To prune or remove a tree, you need to submit a Tree Permit Application, with the Appropriate fees, to Council before you carry out any work.  However, if the tree being requested to be removed forms part of a development application you need to submit a  Development Application Form

For further information: Tree Presevation Order

Exceptions

Blocked pipe or sewer

You can remove tree roots that have entered a pipe and have caused an immediate blockage. You need to apply for a Tree Permit to remove the roots surrounding the pipe or if deemed necessary, the entire tree. A comprehensive report prepared by a licensed plumber will enable Council's assessment process to be expediated (see also exemption 7d of the TPO). "A populus sp (Poplar), Salix sp (Willow), Cinnamomum camphora (Camphor Laurel) and Liquidamber styraciflua (Liquidamber) can be removed without consent where the trunk of such tree is located within 5 metres of any sewer".

Dead Tree

The tree must be completely dead. If you are unsure, refer to the Tree Presevation Order for a definition.

Noxious Tree

You do not need approval to remove a tree listed as noxious or undesirable. Refer to the Tree Presevation Order or the Noxious Weeds page for a complete listing.

For further information: Tree Permit Application form for consent to remove/prune a tree/s

Free Trees to Residents

Open days are held at Council's Nursery in Cowells Lane, Ermington where residents can select two FREE trees/shrubs. Dates are advertised in the Council page of the local newspapers.

Suggested contractors for tree pruning/removal?

Council recommends that you contact the National Arborists Association of Australia for your local, insured arborist on:

Ph: (02) 4739 4339 or
Email nat.arborists@optusnet.com.au.

A list is also available from Tree Contactors Association on:

Ph: 4367 2528 or at
Email tcansw@integritynet.com.au.

Council can also provide you with a copy of these listings.

Trees on public land

Council's Open Space and Recreation section is responsible for the maintenance of trees located in Councils roads,parks and reserves. Similarly, other statutory authorities are responsible for their properties, including the Department of Housing. These authorities are not exempt from the requirements of the Tree Preservation Order and require approval from Council prior to removing or prunninga tree.

For trees located on Council nature strip, please contact the Customer Service Centre on 9806 5600 who will be able to assist with your concern.

Council has developed and is implementing the Parramatta Planting Strategy 2002.

The purpose of the Strategy is to promote the greening of all suburbs in the Parramatta Local Government Area (LGA) and to provide a strategic management tool for all planting programs in public areas such as streets and parks. The aim is to "plant the right plant in the right place for the right reason" and the Strategy covers all plant forms including trees, shrubs, groundcovers and grasses.

Trees underneath electricity wires?

Integral Energy should be contacted for all trees affected by power wires on public land. General enquiries phone 131 081 and for emergencies phone 131 003.