Bayside City Council Tree Regulations

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 Before carrying out any major pruning or tree removal on your business or residential property, it is essential to follow Bayside City Council’s tree regulations.

These rules apply to properties located in Beaumaris, Black Rock, Brighton, Brighton East, Hampton, Hampton East, and Sandringham. Certain parts of Cheltenham and Highett also fall under Bayside Council’s jurisdiction, so residents in these areas should ensure compliance.

 The Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla) is one of the most commonly planted trees in the Bayside area. Many homeowners also have gum trees in their gardens. With ongoing development and the construction of new apartments, the demand for professional tree pruning and stump removal has increased to accommodate tighter property boundaries and a growing residential base.

 Bayside City Council do not have “Heritage Protected” trees, the trees that would fall under this category are protected on the Significant Tree Register – CLICK HERE to view the list.

A permit is required to prune or remove a tree in the City of Bayside if it meets any of the following criteria:

• The tree is located within the Bayside Vegetation Protection Overlay zone
   
• It has a single or combined trunk circumference greater than 155 cm, measured 1 metre from ground level
   
• It is listed on the Council’s Register of Significant Trees
   
• It was planted in accordance with the replacement planting condition of a Local Law Permit
  

Permit Exemptions

Residents may be exempt from requiring a permit if:

• The tree poses an immediate threat to people or property (emergency situation)
   
• The tree is listed on the Department of Primary Industries noxious weed list
   
• Work is completed by a qualified arborist (Cert. III or higher) following Australian Standards (AS 4373-2007) Pruning of Amenity Trees, with before and after photos taken to certify pruning work
   

Note: Palms, ferns, and other non-woody plants are not classified as “trees” under Bayside Council regulations and do not require a permit for removal or pruning.

CLICK HERE to apply for a tree removal/pruning permit for Bayside city council.