Frequently Asked Questions
Do I require Council permission to prune or remove trees?
Yes if the trees are five metres or more in height.
How do I apply to prune or remove a tree?
You can send a letter or complete City of Ryde’s application form stating the reasons why you wish to prune or remove the tree(s) together with the applicable fee (as found on application form). Exemptions do apply. Phone the Customer Service Centre on 9952 8222 for details.
What are the Tree Preservation Order exemptions and conditions?
If a tree falls into a category exempted from the Tree Preservation Order either by species, position or condition, removal or
pruning works may be carried out by lodging a Notice of Intent with Council. This gives Council seven (7) working days notice of the work you propose to do. There is no application fee and the work permit will be returned to you by mail. No work should be undertaken until the work permit is received.
What trees are exempt from the Tree Preservation Order?
By Species:
Liquidamber, Silky Oak, Evergreen Alder, Coral Tree, Citrus Tree, Rubber Tree, Oleander, Cocos or Queen Palm (located behind the building line), Umbrella Tree, and any noxious tree including: Narrow Leaf Privet, Broad Leaf Privet, Weeping Willow (with trunk circumference less than 400mm at one metre trunk height), and the Rhus Tree. Camphor laurel's are exempt except on heritage listed properties or those within a heritage conservation area.
Other exemptions are:
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The tree is dying, dead or dangerous. Declaration within this category can only be made by an Arborist, or other suitably qualified person; or
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The tree poses an immediate danger to people or property. Declaration within this category can only be made by an Arborist, or other suitably qualified person
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The trunk of the tree, at one (1) metre above ground level, is within three (3) metres of the wall or foundation of a lawfully constructed building with a floor area of more than 30m2.
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The trunk of the tree, at one metre above ground level, is within three (3) metres of any stormwater infrastructure owned by the City of Ryde or Sydney Water.
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Pruning of tree branches that have reached the overhead electrical wires.
Do categories of exemption always apply?
No. Some restrictions do apply.
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The categories of exemption do not apply for properties that are heritage listed or are within a heritage conservation area.
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The categories of exemption do not apply for NATIVE species trees on properties that are identified in the "Bushland in the Ryde LGA" report.
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The categories of exemption do not apply for trees listed on the Significant Tree Register.
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The categories of exemption, except for the listed tree species, do not apply for properties that have an active development consent.
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The categories of exemption do not apply for properties that are subject to an area specific planning instrument.
Will Council do the work if I get approval to prune/remove a tree?
No, you will need to arrange any work through a private tree surgeon or contractor.
Who do I call about storm damaged trees?
In the case of a severe weather event or storm affecting the Ryde local government area, special arrangements have been made to assist residents. In this situation contact the Customer Service Centre on 9952 8222 for information.
What do I do if I have with problems with my neighbour's trees?
If the tree is over five (5) metres in height:
If the tree is less than five (5) metres in height:
The Trees (Disputes Between Neighbours) Act 2006: The Act operates for application made to the Land and Environment Court in relation to trees on adjoining private property, where an owner will not agree to the tree being removed or pruned.
For information on how to make an application refer to the Land and Environment Court's Tree Disputes Information.
What are the guidelines for pruning/thinning a tree?
Crown thinning reduces foliage density without changing the overall shape of the tree and allows more light through the canopy. An experienced tree contractor/arborist will be able to selectively prune trees to alleviate most problems.
Indiscriminate pruning or topping of trees is not permitted. The regrowth on misshapen trees not only looks unbalanced but causes further problems such as branch fractures and denser regrowth which are also inappropriate. Inappropriate pruning may also create a hazard.
To protect people and property, the City of Ryde requires that all pruning work be in accordance with Australian Standard 4373-1996 - Pruning of Amenity Trees.
Can Council provide some tree replacements and planting hints?
A standard condition of approval for the removal of a tree is that you replace it with another more suitable tree species anywhere else on the property. This is to ensure that the tree canopy in the property is restored.
When replacing trees look for species that grow well in the area and will not cause other problems such as damage to your house. This will save you money and disappointment in the long run. Native trees can provide food and suitable habitat for birds and wildlife.
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