Wollongong Tree Removal Permits: Step-by-Step Walkthrough

29 October 2026

Before removing a tree in Wollongong, check whether you need permission from Wollongong City Council. The answer can depend on the tree, its location, the property's planning controls and the reason for removal. A tree being on your property does not automatically mean you can remove it.

This walkthrough explains how to check the requirements, prepare an application and arrange approved work. In 2026, use Council's current forms and published fees rather than relying on older advice or a neighbour's experience.
Step 1: Check Which Rules Apply to Your Property
Start with the tree management information on the Wollongong City Council website https://www.wollongong.nsw.gov.au/. Check the current Wollongong Development Control Plan and any planning controls affecting your address.

Tree size, species, heritage status and environmental significance can affect the approval pathway. Requirements may also differ where removal forms part of building work or involves native vegetation clearing. A standard tree permit is not necessarily the only approval required.

If the rules are unclear, give Council your address, photographs and the tree's approximate dimensions, then ask which application pathway applies.
Step 2: Confirm Ownership and Any Exemption
Establish whether the tree stands entirely on your property, on a boundary, on neighbouring land or on public land. Do not arrange removal of a street tree or reserve tree yourself; report your concerns to Council. Trees on neighbouring land require the owner's involvement, and overhanging branches do not give you unrestricted pruning rights.

Check whether a published exemption applies to your proposed work. Do not assume that a dead tree, an undesirable species or a tree close to a building is automatically exempt. Exemptions can have conditions, and other environmental or heritage protections may still apply. Keep evidence supporting any exemption you rely on.
Step 3: Gather Clear Evidence
A useful application explains which tree is involved, why work is needed and what work you propose. Prepare:
The property address, applicant details and owner consent where required. A site sketch identifying each tree, nearby buildings, boundaries and access points. Photographs showing the whole tree, its surroundings and any visible defects. The species, approximate height and trunk measurements requested by Council. Supporting evidence, such as an arborist's assessment or a specialist report about alleged structural damage.
Label trees consistently across photographs, plans and reports. This helps prevent uncertainty about which trees an approval covers.
Step 4: Obtain Arborist Advice Where Needed
An arborist can assess tree health, structural condition and practical alternatives to removal. Council may request a report, particularly where the application relies on safety concerns or involves a significant tree. Confirm the required qualifications and report scope before commissioning one.

A strong assessment explains the evidence behind its recommendations. Leaf drop, shade or concerns about roots alone do not establish that removal is necessary. Where building damage is alleged, input from an engineer or another relevant specialist may also be useful.
Step 5: Submit the Correct Application
Use Council's current lodgement instructions and pay the applicable application fee. Include all requested documents https://treeremovalwollongong.com.au/stump-grinding/ https://treeremovalwollongong.com.au/stump-grinding/ and retain your receipt and reference number. Fees and assessment timeframes can change, so check them directly before scheduling contractors.

If removal relates to a development application, heritage item or environmentally sensitive land, confirm whether it must be assessed through a different process. Respond promptly if Council requests further information or access for an inspection.
Step 6: Wait for Written Approval
Do not begin work simply because an application has been lodged. Read the written determination carefully. Approval may specify particular trees, pruning limits, replacement planting, protection measures or a deadline for completing the work.

If approval is refused, review the reasons and ask Council about available review options. A revised proposal involving selective pruning or retention measures may be worth discussing.
Step 7: Arrange Safe, Compliant Tree Work
Give your contractor the approval and supporting plans before work starts. Check their insurance, relevant qualifications and approach to protecting nearby buildings, retained trees and underground services. Work near electricity infrastructure requires additional precautions and coordination with the relevant network operator.

Keep photographs, invoices and any replacement planting records after completion.
What If the Tree Presents an Immediate Danger?
Keep people away from the area and do not attempt hazardous removal yourself. Call 000 if there is an immediate threat to life. For storm-related assistance, contact the NSW SES on 132 500.

Contact Council as soon as practicable about approval requirements and document the condition where it is safe to do so. An emergency is not a blanket exemption for unrelated tree work. Confirm what action is lawful and limit work to what is necessary to address the immediate risk.

Wollongong Tree Removal Pros

106 Gipps St, Wollongong NSW 2500

(02) 4210 5945