The Times Australia
The Times Magazine

.

Protected Trees in NSW: What You Need to Know

  • Written by NewsServices.com

If you live in New South Wales, you might already have heard that some trees are protected by law. Maybe you discovered this when you contacted someone for a quote to remove them, or maybe you learned the hard way by getting a fine for removing a tree you shouldn’t have.

Let’s take a closer look at how the laws that protect trees in NSW work and what you can do to stay on the right side of the law.

Why Are Trees Protected?

Of course, there are environmental reasons for protecting trees, including, in some cases, their role in erosion protection. But there are also several other reasons why a tree might be protected, including:

  • * If the tree is historically important – this usually applies to very large, very old trees that have been around for hundreds of years or more

  • If the tree is of aboriginal importance because it is a species or type that is significant to aboriginal importance

  • Because it is of botanical importance, based on the tree species

  • If it is a “landscape amenity” in that it provides shade or something else

  • For functional reasons, like erosion control

There are also specific species that you can’t remove or sometimes even cut back, such as:

  • Coral Tree

  • Camphor Laurel

  • Liquidambar

  • American Nettle Tree

  • Chinese Nettle Tree

These trees are automatically protected, even if they don’t meet one of the other criteria for protection.

Tree Protection Laws

Tree protection laws might vary slightly from area to area, so it’s always a good idea to contact your local council to find out what the process is for your area.

You will almost certainly need to apply for permission before you can do any cutting or removal, so make sure you don’t pick up any tools before you’ve ticked all the legal boxes!

The NSW Significant Tree Register

In addition to general regulations protecting trees based on their type and other factors, there is also a “significant tree register.” This lists individual trees that have particular importance, and that cannot be interfered with, regardless of requesting permission. The register is divided by area and city, so you can find out if there are any on your property.

Penalties for Tree Removal

Unfortunately, not knowing the law does not excuse you from consequences if you remove a tree without permission or even if you trim the wrong tree. Fines from the local council can go up to $110,000, but you could also be fined over a million by the Land and Environment Court if the tree you remove or tamper with is of special significance.

Check Before You Cut!

The simplest way to stay on the right side of NSW tree protection laws is not to cut anything until you’ve contacted the local council, had an inspection and got written confirmation and permits in place. A local arborist will also be able to advise you about protected trees, but even if you use one, you will have to get permits before they can start the job.

Not all fines for cutting trees are as high as we already mentioned, but they start at $5,000, so they’re not pocket change either! Don’t take a chance – get it all done legally.

Times Magazine

Building an AI-First Culture in Your Company

AI isn't just something to think about anymore - it's becoming part of how we live and work, whether we like it or not. At the office, it definitely helps us move faster. But here's the thing: just using tools like ChatGPT or plugging AI into your wo...

Data Management Isn't Just About Tech—Here’s Why It’s a Human Problem Too

Photo by Kevin Kuby Manuel O. Diaz Jr.We live in a world drowning in data. Every click, swipe, medical scan, and financial transaction generates information, so much that managing it all has become one of the biggest challenges of our digital age. Bu...

Headless CMS in Digital Twins and 3D Product Experiences

Image by freepik As the metaverse becomes more advanced and accessible, it's clear that multiple sectors will use digital twins and 3D product experiences to visualize, connect, and streamline efforts better. A digital twin is a virtual replica of ...

The Decline of Hyper-Casual: How Mid-Core Mobile Games Took Over in 2025

In recent years, the mobile gaming landscape has undergone a significant transformation, with mid-core mobile games emerging as the dominant force in app stores by 2025. This shift is underpinned by changing user habits and evolving monetization tr...

Understanding ITIL 4 and PRINCE2 Project Management Synergy

Key Highlights ITIL 4 focuses on IT service management, emphasising continual improvement and value creation through modern digital transformation approaches. PRINCE2 project management supports systematic planning and execution of projects wit...

What AI Adoption Means for the Future of Workplace Risk Management

Image by freepik As industrial operations become more complex and fast-paced, the risks faced by workers and employers alike continue to grow. Traditional safety models—reliant on manual oversight, reactive investigations, and standardised checklist...

The Times Features

Flipping vs. Holding: Which Investment Strategy Is Right for You?

Are you wondering whether flipping a property or holding onto it is the better investment strategy? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Both strategies have distinct advantages a...

Why Everyone's Talking About Sea Moss - And Should You Try It Too?

Sea moss - a humble marine plant that’s been used for centuries - is making a major comeback in modern wellness circles. And it’s not just a trend. With growing interest from athle...

A Guide to Smarter Real Estate Accounting: What You Might Be Overlooking

Real estate accounting can be a complex terrain, even for experienced investors and property managers. From tracking rental income to managing property expenses, the financial in...

What Is the Dreamtime? Understanding Aboriginal Creation Stories Through Art

Aboriginal culture is built on the deep and important meaning of Dreamtime, which links beliefs and history with the elements that make life. It’s not just myths; the Dreamtime i...

How Short-Term Lenders Offer Long-Lasting Benefits in Australia

In the world of personal and business finance, short-term lenders are often viewed as temporary fixes—quick solutions for urgent cash needs. However, in Australia, short-term len...

Why School Breaks Are the Perfect Time to Build Real Game Skills

School holidays provide uninterrupted time to focus on individual skill development Players often return sharper and more confident after structured break-time training Holid...