This page contains information about Northern Beaches tree removal and pruning. If you live in another Sydney region, or want general information about tree removal services, please refer see our Tree Removal and Pruning Guide.

Under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Vegetation in Non-Rural Areas) 2017, your local government can declare what circumstances require a pruning and tree removal permit. This may include:

  1. Species of vegetation
  2. Size of vegetation
  3. Location of vegetation
  4. The presence of vegetation in an ecological community or in the habitat of a threatened species.

Northern Beaches Suburbs 

Until recently the Northern Beaches region consisted of Manly, Warringah and Pittwater councils. These were amalgamated in 2016 to form the Northern Beaches council. 

Here is a list of all the Northern Beaches suburbs:

Allambie HeightsCromerMona Vale
AvalonCurl CurlMorning Bay
Balgowlah HeightsDavidsonNarrabeen
BalgowlahDee WhyNorth Narrabeen
BayviewDuffys ForestNarraweena
Beacon HillElanora HeightsNewport
BelroseElvina BayNorth Balgowlah
BilgolaFairlightNorth Curl Curl
Bilgola PlateauForestvilleNorth Manly
BrookvaleFrenchs ForestOxford Falls
Church PointFreshwaterPalm Beach
ClarevilleGreat Mackerel BeachQueenscliff
ClontarfInglesideScotland Island
Coasters RetreatKillarney HeightsSeaforth
Collaroy PlateauLovett BayTerrey Hills
CollaroyManly ValeWarriewood
Cottage PointManlyWhale Beach
Wheeler Heights

Northern Beaches Tree Removal Permit

If you need a Northern Beaches council permit, you can download a PDF form or complete the application online. Before you begin check to see if your tree is on the exempt tree species list. You will also need to complete a site plan with details and owners consent.

Cost For Northern Beaches Tree Removal

There are two costs when removing a tree. (1) The cost for a council tree removal permit, and (2) the cost to remove the tree.

The Northern Beaches council charge a $168 non-refundable application fee. This includes the first tree, with an extra $48 for each additional tree. You can also request an onsite appointment with the Council Officer. This appointment is optional and carries an additional fee of $93.

Your application may also require an independent arborist report when:

  • You want to remove a native tree.
  • The tree supports local habitat.
  • Heritage listed trees.
  • Trees of large amenity and visual significance.

Once you have a council permit, the cost to remove a small tree starts from $400. If you want a tree removal price estimate, contact us fora quote.

Tree Removal Exemptions

You do not need a council permit if you tree meets the following criteria:

  • Under 5 metres in height.
  • On the Northern Beaches Exempt Tree Species List
  • Can be removed under the 10/50 Legislation
  • Located within two metres of an existing approved building (not including decks, pergolas, sheds, patios or the like, even if they are attached to a building).
  • Poses a danger to life or property. May require an arborist report that must be sent to the council.
  • Any tree listed as a priority weed under the Bio Security Act 2015 and identified in the Greater Sydney Regional Weed Management Plan.
  • Dead, and not required as the habitat of native animals (photo evidence required)

Northern Beaches Pruning and Clearing Vegetation Exemptions

You can also prune and clear vegetation for the following reasons:

  • Pruning of up to 10% of a tree’s canopy within a year and in accordance with Australian standards
  • The removal of deadwood
  • Removal of parasitic plant from any part of a tree
  • Under the 10/50 Legislation when the property is mapped in the 10/50 entitlement area.

Need Help? Book a Tree Removal Quote

Not sure what tree species you have, or if you need a council permit? We can help.

Call and speak to a member of our team. We may be able to tell answer your question over the phone. Or alternatively, we can book a site inspection and quote. Where we will identify your tree, advise you if your tree is on the exempt list, and tell you all the steps you need to complete to get started.