Tree Management Permit (TMP)
You need to be aware of your responsibilities when pruning or removing a tree within our Local Government Area. There are many rules surrounding trees in regard heights diameters and heritage or types of trees that can affect what you can and can't do.
Council issues Tree Management Permits (TMP) to ensure compliance by the community of the rules and regulations. These rules and regulations form part of Council's Development Control Plan.
The rules and regulations prohibits the ringbarking, cutting down, topping, lopping, removing, injuring or destruction of any tree except with the prior written consent of Council (in the form of a Tree Management Permit).
When do I need to apply for a Tree Management Permit?
You need to apply for a Tree Management Permitt if the tree:
- is three metres or more in height
- has a diameter of 200mm or more at a height of one metre from the ground
- has a branch spread of three metres or more.
Please note: Some trees may be exempt and won't need to apply for a Tree Management Permit. For the list of exempt trees view the Exempt Trees page.
Note: Dead Trees still require a Tree Management Permit application.
You cannot apply to remove a tree on a neighbour's property. See below for information about Neighbours' Rights.
If you are a new owner of the property (tree/s) Council requires a copy of the transmittal to the Lands Office before the application can be processed. Please email the information to records@wollongong.nsw.gov.au marked 'Attention: Tree Management Office'.
Assessment Criteria
When processing applications, Council officers will consider a broad range of issues which are outlined in Chapter E17 Preservation and Management of Trees and Vegetation, you can view this document on this page.
The criteria is broadly based around these principles:
- safety and risk management considerations
- environmental considerations
- amenity and asthetic considerations.
How do I apply?
There are two options to apply for a Tree Management Permit:
Option 1. 
Lodge an application online
- Online requires a payment of $62* via credit card for the application to be lodged
*The application fee is reduced by 50% for residents who receive a Wollongong City Council pension rate rebate. ie a fee of $31 will apply.
Option 2. Complete a hard copy application form
- Return the form in person with payment to Council Customer Service Centre, Ground Floor 41 Burelli Street, Wollongong
- Post the application form and payment to:
- Wollongong City Council
Locked Bag 8821
Wollongong DC NSW 2500
- Printable
Tree Management Permit Application Forms
How much does it cost?
Cost: $62 (cash, credit card, cheque or money order).
*The application fee is reduced by 50% for residents who receive a Wollongong City Council pension rate rebate, ie a fee of $31 will apply.
How many trees can I apply for?
A maximum of five trees per application will be considered by Council and a maximum of three applications can be submitted.
How long will it take to process my application?
Applications will be processed within 10 working days from the date of payment.
How will I know will outcome of my application?
Once your application has been processed you will be notified in writing of the outcome. All applications lodged are issued a unique identifiable number, this will be clearly stated on your notification of outcome letter.
Alternatively, approved applications can be viewed online. Applications listed online are those which have been approved within the previous 30 days.
If your application is successful?
- You will receive a notification of determination in the mail.
- Your determination letter will have a unique number that is your permit which will outline authorised works.
- Your permit is valid for up to two years from the date of issue (which is the date on your determination letter).
If your application is unsuccessful?
- In the case of refusals, the reasons why consent has not been granted is outlined in your determination letter.
- Council may request additional expert information as it deems fit.
- In all instances the cost of such additional information must be borne by the applicant, eg arborists, engineers, plumbers, medical reports etc.
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If you're not happy with the result of your Tree Application
Appeal Process
If you're not satisfied with your Tree Management Permit application decision from Council, you can complete an Application for Appeal and submit it to Council with the appropriate fee ($31).
How long does the appeals process take?
15 working days.
Your appeal will be reviewed by the Environment and Conservation Services Manager.
It should be noted that at any time during the application or appeal process you have the right to elect to have the matter heard before the Land and Environment Court.
Neighbours' Rights
The owner of a neighbouring property may seek our consent, on the appropriate application form, to prune a neighbour's tree if it overhangs their property. Consent will be dependent on the ability of the tree to be pruned in accordance with AS 4373 'Pruning of Amenity Trees' and root pruning is subject to tree stability. All pruning consented must occur on the applicant’s side of the boundary line only. These approved works do not require written consent of the tree owner.
Legal advice should be sought regarding liability for any damage caused by trees. It is not the role of Council to intervene in neighbourhood disputes regarding trees. Conflicts may be resolved through the Community Justice Centre. A neighbour may wish to lodge an application with the Land and Environment Court under the Trees (Dispute Between Neighbours) Amendment Act 2010 if mediation fails.
Compliance - Breach
Approvals for tree works will be randomly monitored for compliance by Council. Tree works carried out without approval or not in accordance with an approval will be dealt with in accordance with relevant legislation. This may result in a penalty infringement notice or legal action through the local courts for all parties involved in any breach of the TMP. In the event that trees designated to be retained are damaged or destroyed, a Court is able to order that replacement trees be planted and maintained to maturity in addition to any monetary penalty imposed. For more information on the Breaches of the Tree Management Control Plan read the factsheet below.