Tree Removal

1. Don’t get fined – check if you need approval

Canberra’s urban forest is protected under the Urban Forest Act 2023, so before you organise a tree removal check whether you have a protected tree. These trees will either be registered, regulated or a public tree.

A registered tree is in Canberra’s built-up urban areas and has:

• natural or cultural heritage value
• landscape and aesthetic value
• scientific and ecological value.

You can see a list of these trees on the ACT tree register.

A regulated tree meets the criteria listed in the local tree protection laws. For example,

• its height (8 metres or taller)
• canopy width (8 metres or wider)
• the trunk(s) circumference
• if it was planted less than 5 years ago as part of a canopy contribution
• some dead native trees.

If you have a protected tree, you need to submit a tree activity application. We can complete the application for you if you’re a customer. The government’s tree protection unit will assess your tree and decide whether you can remove it.

If it gets approved, you will enter into a canopy contribution agreement. Homeowners are likely to be asked to plant 2 new trees on site or make a $600 financial contribution to plant a tree off-site. Developers’ contribution will be determined using the ACT Government’s tree calculator.

2. Ask if your arborist is qualified

Ask your arborist whether they’re qualified and insured for your safety and protection. You can request their industry licence, qualifications, and insurance certificates.

Tree surgery is a high-risk activity yet largely unregulated in Australia. Inexpert loppers are known to cut and remove healthy and valuable trees and may not be covered in an accident.

Arboriculture Australia recommends you use arborists with a minimum Certificate III in Arboriculture for tree removals. If you’re seeking advice, you should use an Arborist with at least a Diploma in Arboriculture.

Want to learn more? Read about what to expect with our tree removal service.