Tree Removal Resources

10/50 Fire Hazard & Council Tree Management Information

10/50 Vegetation Clearing

The NSW Rural Fire Service introduced the 10/50 vegetation clearing to assist land owners to better prepare for bush fires.

The scheme allows people in a designated area to:

• Clear trees on their property within 10 metres of a home, without seeking approval; and
• Clear underlying vegetation such as shrubs (but not trees) on their property within 50 metres of a home, without seeking approval.

Please note that the 10/50 areas do change at times so its best to always reconfirm if you are in the 10/50 area the day the tree work is expected to commence.

Local Council Tree Management Information

These council resources explain the basics of tree pruning and removal, including approval requirements, exempt trees, and application forms. Some councils also include extra guidance on heritage areas, neighbour disputes, and how applications are assessed.

Bayside Council 

If you’re planning tree pruning or tree removal in Bayside, or dealing with a neighbouring tree that’s affecting your property, it’s best to visit the Bayside Council website to check whether approval is required. Council guidance covers private tree permits, neighbour tree issues and the approvals process, so you can confirm the correct next step before any work begins.

Georges River Council 

These resources assist landowners with when approval may be required, how tree management applies to private property, and what to consider when applying for a permit or development consent relating to tree pruning or removal, as well as general tree management FAQs.

Sutherland Shire Council

These council resources help explain when approval may be required, what work may be exempt and what to consider before pruning or removing a tree.

Wollongong Council

Wollongong City Council provides clear, easy-to-follow information on tree permit applications, removal guides, exempt trees and general FAQs.

Randwick Council 

Randwick City Council provides clear guidance on tree pruning and removal on private property, including permit requirements, exempt trees, and how to apply.

Liverpool Council

Liverpool City Council provides clear guidance on tree pruning and removal, including the application process, exempt trees and have both physical and online application forms to request approval .

Inner West Council

Inner West Council gives residents a clear pathway for managing trees on private land, with a permit process, exemption rules, and practical FAQs that explain what can be done without approval.

City of Canterbury-Bankstown

City of Canterbury-Bankstown provides detailed tree management guidance for private property, including exemptions, permit requirements and the application form for pruning or removal.

Need help identifying a plant or tree in your yard?

Download the PictureThis® – Plant Identifier app from the Apple App Store or Google Play to identity any plant by a photo with 98% accuracy.

Other key features of the app that help with day-to-day plant management and tree maintenance include;

• Discover plant diseases and be provided with the best cure
• General plant care tips and reminders
• Identify toxic plants around your yard to help keep your family and pets safe