Inner West Council Exempt Tree List. Confirm Before You Remove
Some trees in the Inner West Council area can be pruned or removed without a permit if they meet Council’s exemption criteria. Our Level 5 arborists can inspect and confirm whether your tree qualifies under the Tree Management Controls (2025).
If your tree is over 5 m tall, located within a Heritage Conservation Area, or not on the exempt list, Council approval will still be required. We provide on-site assessments and written confirmation to help homeowners, builders, and developers remain compliant and avoid fines.
Do I Need a Permit to Remove a Tree in the Inner West?
If your tree species appears on the Council’s Exempt List, or if it is under 5 metres tall, less than 300 mm in trunk diameter, dead, or causing structural damage, it may be pruned or removed without a permit.
Our Level 5 arborists can confirm this on-site and issue written documentation for Council or insurance purposes.
Inner West Council – Exempt Tree Species List (2025)
When a Tree Is Exempt
- The tree is dead, dying, or dangerous – confirmed by a Level 5 arborist
- Under 5 m tall or less than 300 mm diameter at ground level
- Causing structural damage to a building or approved structure (with supporting evidence)
We Help You Confirm Tree Status
- On-site inspection by a qualified Level 5 arborist
- Verification that your tree meets Council’s exemption criteria
- Written documentation for Council or insurance
- Full Council arborist report prepared if approval is required
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my tree is exempt from an Inner West Council permit?
If your tree species is listed as exempt, or meets height, size, or condition thresholds, you may not need approval. We confirm exemption on-site and issue written documentation.
Can a Level 5 arborist confirm that my tree is exempt?
Yes. Our Level 5 arborists assess species, health, and size to verify if your tree meets Council criteria, then provide written confirmation or a Council-ready report.
What happens if my tree isn’t exempt?
You’ll need Council approval. We prepare and submit all required documents, including AS 4970-compliant arborist reports to ensure fast approval.
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