Development Related Tree Requirements

Council will require tree plantings in all new subdivisions as part of the development application process and associated approval. Trees planted in all new subdivisions shall be in accordance with Urban Tree Management Strategy and Tree Management Plan.

We assess applicable Development Applications (DA) against the Development Control Plans (DCP), tree replenishment rates and deep soil requirements, to ensure sufficient healthy canopy cover is established.

Trees identified on development sites are assessed through Council’s Development Application Process and cannot be considered under the tree permit application (either Tree Removal - Request for Exemption (TREX) or Vegetation Clearing Permit (VCP)) and assessment process.

Trees must be protected from construction works and other activities/events that threaten tree health and stability. Tree sensitive design, management, construction including construction hoardings and scaffolding around trees must adhere to AS4970:2025.

AS 4970:2025 (Protection of Trees on Development Sites) was published on 30 May 2025, replacing the previous 2009 Australian Standard. It sets out the national guidelines for planning, managing and protecting trees during building and development projects. 

Council will be consulted to review all Development Applications where works are within the Notional Root Zone (NRZ) of trees on public land.

Development works within the NRZ of private and public trees are to include a Preliminary Arboricultural Report, followed by an Arboricultural Impact Assessment as per AS4970:2025.

These reports are to be prepared by a Consulting Arborist with no affiliation to firms undertaking the tree pruning or removal works.