Inner West Council Tree Guidelines, Made Simple
We make Inner West Council’s tree guidelines easy to understand. Our local Level 5 arborists explain when a tree removal or pruning permit is required and which trees are exempt under the Council’s Tree Management Controls.
With over 32 years of experience, we help homeowners, builders, and developers stay compliant while protecting both their property and trees. Whether you're pruning for clearance, removing a dead tree, or preparing a DA, we’ll confirm if a permit is needed and prepare the Council-ready arborist report if required.
What Are Inner West Council’s Rules for Tree Removal?
Any tree over 5 m in height or 300 mm trunk diameter (measured 1.4 m above ground level – DBH) requires Council approval unless it is an exempt species.
Our Level 5 arborists confirm whether your tree meets these rules and prepare compliant reports for Council approval.
When You Need Council Approval
- The tree is over 5 m high or has a trunk diameter > 300 mm at 1.4 m height (DBH)
- The tree is in a Heritage Conservation Area or near a heritage-listed property
- The tree appears on Council’s Significant Tree Register
- The tree is a locally significant species protected under the Tree Management Controls
- For development sites, where tree impact assessments are required under AS 4970
When You Don’t Need Council Approval
Some trees are exempt or can be pruned/removed without a permit. Council allows pruning or removal of:
- Exempt species listed on the Inner West Council Exempt Tree List
- Trees under 5 m tall or under 300 mm DBH
- Dead or hazardous trees confirmed by a Level 5 arborist
- Minor pruning for safety or clearance within AS 4373 standards
(We can confirm exemptions before you apply.)
Our Arborist Services
- Permit Applications – Tree removal & pruning for homeowners and builders
- DA & CDC Arborist Reports – AS 4970-compliant documentation for Council
- Tree Risk & Safety Assessments
- Exempt Tree Confirmation Reports
- Emergency Tree Removal Documentation
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I always need a permit to remove a tree?
A permit is required if the tree is over 5 m high or 300 mm in diameter at 1.4 m height. Some smaller or exempt species may not need approval. Our Level 5 arborist can assess this for you.
How do I know if my tree is protected?
We check your property zoning and tree details against Inner West Council guidelines and provide written confirmation.
What standard governs tree pruning and removal?
All works follow AS 4373 (Pruning of Amenity Trees) and AS 4970 (Protection of Trees on Development Sites).
Can you help lodge my application?
Yes, we prepare and submit Council applications with the required Level 5 arborist reports and supporting photos.
Are emergency removals allowed without approval?
Yes, if a tree poses an immediate safety hazard, our Level 5 arborist can authorise removal and submit a follow-up report within 24 hours.
Backed by Arbor Express Sydney – trusted for council-compliant tree permits, reports, and emergency services across Greater Sydney.
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Call now or email us for fast, expert help with your tree permit or report. Rest easy, we handle everything from start to finish.
