Stay Safe — and Stay Legal — When Cutting Your Trees

Pruning your trees might seem like a simple backyard job, but in New South Wales, cutting the wrong tree the wrong way can lead to hefty fines — even if it’s on your property.

If you’re in the Mid North Coast — Kempsey, Nambucca Heads, Port Macquarie, or Coffs Harbour — here’s what you need to know before you make the first cut.

Why Tree Laws Exist

Local councils regulate tree work to:

            •           Protect native and significant trees

            •           Preserve biodiversity

            •           Maintain neighbourhood safety

            •           Prevent over-clearing or illegal removal

Even well-meaning pruning can break the rules if you don’t check first.

What Is a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)?

Most councils in NSW have a Tree Preservation Order (TPO). It’s a regulation that protects certain trees based on:

            •           Height or canopy size

            •           Species type (e.g. eucalyptus, figs)

            •           Proximity to property lines

            •           Environmental significance

Under most TPOs, you can’t prune or remove protected trees without written council approval.

You could face penalties over $1,000 if you prune more than allowed.

Why Tree Laws Exist

Local councils regulate tree work to:

            •           Protect native and significant trees

            •           Preserve biodiversity

            •           Maintain neighbourhood safety

            •           Prevent over-clearing or illegal removal

Even well-meaning pruning can break the rules if you don’t check first.

What Is a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)?

Most councils in NSW have a Tree Preservation Order (TPO). It’s a regulation that protects certain trees based on:

          •           Height or canopy size

          •           Species type (e.g. eucalyptus, figs)

          •           Proximity to property lines

          •           Environmental significance

Under most TPOs, you can’t prune or remove protected trees without written council approval.

You could face penalties over $1,000 if you prune more than allowed.

What Tree Work Is Usually Allowed Without Approval?

Minor pruning – Up to 10% of the canopy annually

Dead branches – Can usually be removed for safety

Trees within 3 metres of a dwelling – In some cases

Bushfire zone properties – May qualify under the 10/50 Rule

Major limb removal, crown reduction, or removal of a healthy tree? You’ll likely need written approval.

How to Stay Compliant (and Safe)

          1.         Call Your Local Council

Each council has its own rules — always check the latest Tree Policy.

           2.         Hire a Qualified Arborist (AQF Level 3 or higher)

They’ll know what’s legal, safe, and healthy for your trees.

           3.         Get a Written Quote with Compliance Notes

If you’re hiring a tree service, make sure they include whether council approval is needed — and if they’ll handle it.

Tree Regulations by Local Area

          •           Kempsey Shire Council – TPO applies to most large native species

          •           Port Macquarie-Hastings Council – Permit needed for many removals

          •           Coffs Harbour City Council – Very strict protection of koala habitat trees

          •           Nambucca Valley Council – Has exemptions for dangerous trees with proof

Check your council’s website or contact them directly — or we can help guide you.

Why Work With Us?

Langham’s Tree Services is fully qualified, insured, and experienced in council-compliant pruning.

We can help you:

            •           Determine if your tree work is legal

            •           Submit council applications (if required)

            •           Prune with safety and tree health in mind

Need Pruning Advice?

Avoid fines and protect your property the right way.

Based on the Mid North Coast

Over 20 years experience

Council knowledge you can trust

Take the safe route and get Tree Pruning with us!