Council Tree Removal Guide Melbourne

Do You Need Council Approval?

In Victoria, most local councils require a planning permit before you can remove a tree that exceeds certain size thresholds. The rules are set by each council's planning scheme under the Planning and Environment Act 1987 (Vic).

Typical triggers for a permit include:

Trunk circumference greater than 110cm measured at 1 metre above ground level
Tree height exceeding 5 metres
The tree is listed on a significant tree register
The property falls within a Vegetation Protection Overlay (VPO), Environmental Significance Overlay (ESO), or Significant Landscape Overlay (SLO)

The Permit Application Process

While the exact process varies by council, most Melbourne municipalities follow a similar workflow:

Check your council's planning scheme to confirm whether a permit is required. You can do this online via the Victorian Planning Provisions or by calling your council's planning department.
Commission an arborist report if required. Most councils want a report from a qualified consulting arborist (AQF Level 5) that assesses the tree's health, structural integrity, and the justification for removal.
Lodge your application with the required plans, photos, and arborist report. Include a site plan showing the tree's location relative to buildings and boundaries.
Wait for assessment. The council may inspect the site. Standard processing takes 4–8 weeks; complex applications may take longer.
Receive your decision. If approved, permits usually include conditions such as planting a replacement tree. If refused, you can appeal to VCAT.

Which Councils Are Strictest?

Some Melbourne councils are particularly rigorous when it comes to tree protection:

City of Boroondara — Protects any tree with a trunk circumference over 110cm. Extensive heritage and neighbourhood character overlays. One of the highest refusal rates for tree removal applications.
City of Whitehorse — Comprehensive vegetation protection overlays across most residential zones. Requires detailed justification for any significant tree removal.
Nillumbik Shire — As Melbourne's “Green Wedge” shire, Nillumbik has some of the strongest tree protection controls in the state. Almost all native vegetation is protected.
City of Banyule — Requires permits for trees above 5m height or 150mm trunk diameter. Significant tree register is actively maintained.
Manningham City — Strong protection for canopy trees, particularly in hillside and bushland areas.

When You Need an Arborist Report

An arborist report is typically required when:

The tree is listed on the significant tree register
The tree falls within a vegetation overlay zone
The tree is large (generally over 5m tall or 110cm trunk circumference)
You are submitting a development or subdivision application that affects trees
The council specifically requests one as part of your permit application

Reports typically cost between $300 and $600 and must be prepared by a consulting arborist holding a minimum AQF Level 5 Diploma of Arboriculture. Learn more in our arborist report guide.

Exemptions from Permits

You generally do not need a permit to remove a tree if:

The tree is dead (though some councils still require notification)
The tree poses an immediate risk to life or property (emergency removal)
The tree is a declared noxious weed species
The tree is within 3 metres of a dwelling (varies by council)
The tree is below your council's size thresholds

Even in emergency situations, it is best practice to photograph the tree and notify your council within 7 days of removal.

Penalties for Illegal Tree Removal

Removing a protected tree without a permit is a serious offence in Victoria. Penalties under the Planning and Environment Act 1987 can include:

Fines of up to $330,000 for individuals
Fines of up to $1.65 million for corporations
Orders to plant replacement trees (often 2–3 trees for every one removed)
Prosecution in the Magistrates' Court

Some councils have dedicated tree protection officers who actively investigate unauthorised removal. For more on protected trees, see our tree preservation orders guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need council approval to remove a tree in Melbourne?

In most Melbourne municipalities, yes. If a tree exceeds certain size thresholds (typically a trunk circumference of 110cm or more at 1m above ground, or a height of 5m+), you will generally need a planning permit. The specific rules vary by council, so always check your local council's planning scheme first.

How long does a council tree removal permit take?

Most Melbourne councils process tree removal permits within 4–8 weeks, though complex applications (e.g., significant trees or heritage overlays) can take 8–12 weeks. Some councils offer fast-track approvals for dead, dying, or hazardous trees.

How much does a tree removal permit cost in Melbourne?

Council tree removal permit fees typically range from $200 to $800, depending on the municipality and the type of application. Some councils also require you to submit an arborist report, which adds $300–$600 to the total cost.

Can I remove a tree without council permission?

Removing a protected tree without a permit is an offence under the Planning and Environment Act 1987 (Vic). Penalties can include fines of up to $330,000 for individuals and $1.65 million for corporations.

Which Melbourne councils are strictest about tree removal?

Boroondara, Whitehorse, and Nillumbik are widely considered the strictest councils for tree removal in Melbourne. These municipalities have extensive vegetation protection overlays and significant tree registers.

Do I need an arborist report for a tree removal permit?

Many Melbourne councils require an arborist report as part of your permit application, especially for significant or large trees. The report must typically be prepared by a Level 5 (consulting) arborist. Reports typically cost $300–$600.