Do I need council approval to remove my tree?
If you’re thinking about removing a tree from your property, you’re not alone. With rapid growth across the Gold Coast, more and more property owners are considering ways to manage vegetation that may be outgrowing its space. But before you grab the chainsaw, there’s one important question to answer — do you need council approval to remove your tree?
The City of Gold Coast regulates vegetation to maintain environmental balance across urban and residential areas. Certain trees are protected to preserve wildlife habitats, manage erosion, reduce urban heat, and keep our streets and suburbs green and shaded. This is why understanding the rules around protected vegetation is essential before making any changes.
Why Do Local Governments Protect Vegetation?
Vegetation plays a key role in the health of our cities. Trees help reduce heat, improve air quality, reduce stormwater runoff, and provide habitats for native birds and wildlife. As our suburbs continue to grow, maintaining a balance between development and green spaces becomes more important.
Local councils, including the City of Gold Coast, protect vegetation under planning regulations to ensure the long-term health of our environment. This is particularly important in areas with older, established trees, bushland zones, or designated environmental overlays.
Do All Trees Need Approval for Removal?
Not all trees are protected, but many are. The best place to start is with the City of Gold Coast’s Self-Assessment Guide. This guide helps determine whether a tree is protected and if you can legally remove it without a permit.
Some trees are exempt from approval altogether. These are typically classified as pest species and may include:
Even though these trees may be exempt, it’s always best to get a professional opinion to avoid costly mistakes.
Special Conditions for Body Corporate or Strata Title Properties
If you live in a body corporate or strata-titled property, the answer to Do I need council approval to remove my tree, is almost always yes. All vegetation is automatically protected. This is because the original landscaping plan approved by council is considered part of the development approval. Any tree removal within these properties will require formal council approval.
Steps to Take If You Think You Need Approval
If you’re unsure whether your tree is protected, here’s what to do:
- Book a free quote with Frontier Tree Services. Our qualified arborist will inspect your tree and assess whether council approval is required.
- Get expert advice. During the inspection, our arborist will let you know if your tree is protected and walk you through the next steps.
- Leave the paperwork to us. If the tree requires approval for removal, and tree removal is the most suitable option, Frontier will handle the application process on your behalf. We make sure the forms are completed correctly and all supporting documentation is submitted.
- Approval granted? We’ll take it from there. Once council approval is received, we’ll schedule the removal and ensure everything is completed safely and in line with local regulations.
Why Use a Qualified Arborist?
Only a qualified arborist can accurately assess tree health and provide compliant advice. At Frontier Tree Services, our AQF Level 5 arborists have the expertise needed to determine whether your tree can be removed and what options may be available if it can’t. This ensures you’re not at risk of fines or legal issues due to unauthorised vegetation removal.
Ready to Book?
If you’re still asking, Do I need council approval to remove my tree? Don’t risk it. Book your free onsite quote with Frontier Tree Services today. We’ll give you honest, expert advice and take care of the hard work if council approval is required. Call or email us to get started.
