Overhanging trees and branches
If a tree overhanging on to your property is not protected by Council's Tree & Vegetation Management Policy, you can prune branches overhanging the common boundary line without the consent of the tree owner under Common Law.
It’s recommended that a qualified arborist or horticulturalist is engaged to undertake the pruning within the Australian Standard for Pruning of Amenity Trees (AS 4373).
This prevents damaging the tree or shrub’s long-term health and safety. It also prevents conflict with neighbours.
When the tree is protected by Council's Tree & Vegetation Management Policy, you must complete Council's Tree Removal or Pruning Application form. If an arborist needs to access your neighbour's property to prune the tree, your neighbour will need to submit the application.
Tree Removal or Pruning Application form
If the owner of the property where the tree is located does not provide consent to prune the tree on their side of the boundary line, Council can only give permission to prune the branches that are overhanging your property to the nearest branch collar to the boundary line, taking into consideration that pruning should not exceed 10% of the crown foliage.
Contact Council
Our Customer Service Centre operates from 9am to 5pm. Our Council Rangers are on duty and contactable seven days a week from 5.30am to midnight.
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