Trees

Tree removal or pruning

• Anyone wishing to prune or remove trees in the Kiama Municipality should refer to Chapter 3 of Kiama DCP 2012 - Preservation and Management of Trees and Vegetation (pdf 1.71MB) and obtain a tree application permit.
• There are a number of trees on the Exempt Tree Species List including for example, domestic fruit trees, coral trees, etc. For information on the Exempt Tree Species List refer to Appendix 1 of Chapter 3 of Kiama DCP 2012 - Preservation and Management of Trees and Vegetation (pdf 1.71MB).
• The process for obtaining a permit is:
  1. Application must be in writing on an application form (pdf 74 KB) or letter, unless it's an emergency.
  2. Fees (pdf 963 KB) are charged.
  3. Inspection will be performed by a Council arborist.
  4. Applicant will be notified in writing (permission or refusal letter).
• For inspections of street trees or trees in reserves or parks,
  call Customer Services on 4232 0444. A Tree Management Procedure for Trees on Public Land is available.
• Answers to Frequently Asked Questions regarding tree management procedures are available here.

Illegal removal or pruning, etc

Council has a policy to take action against persons carrying out works without approval. This depends on the seriousness of the action.

Neighbour's overhanging trees

• Persons can obtain approval to prune overhanging branches of a neighbour's tree, ie the part overhanging the boundary.
• A permit must be obtained by submitting an application form or letter.
• If, after inspection, Council's arborist recommends that work is required within the neighbour's property, the application must be signed by the neighbour (owner) of the tree.
• If the owner does not agree to the work being done, the parties must resolve the matter.
• Council cannot and will not order any work to be done unless it is part of a Court Order.

Free trees

Ratepayers may obtain two free trees each financial year. The stall is held on World Environment Day held by Council in June each year and three other days selected throughout the year. Please telephone Council to find the next day.

Suitable/recommended trees for Kiama

• residential gardens - download “Native Planting for Residential Gardens” (pdf 8.97 MB) or pick up the brochure from our front desk.
• development sites - see Chapter 8 of Kiama DCP 2012 - Landscaping” (pdf 461 KB).