Do I Need Permission To Cut Down A Tree In Glenorchy City Council?

Permits & Protection

Fantastic question. Our answer? It depends. In short, whether you can cut down a tree in Glenorchy City Council depends on a number of moving parts and parties. But first, let’s discuss the reasons you may want to remove a tree on your private property.

When Is It Appropriate To Remove A Tree?

At Tasmanian Tree Care, we believe trees are an asset to your property. Trees provide many benefits, including improving air quality, reducing noise pollution, and providing shade and habitat for wildlife. It’s important to consider the benefits your tree provides to both the environment and to value of your property before making the decision to remove it.

This being said, there are a number of reasons a landowner may choose to remove a tree. These include safety concerns, development reasons, damage to existing infrastructure, and unfortunately, clearing trees to achieve scenic view. It’s important to know that we do not ‘top’ trees to improve a view, as this is a detriment to the health of the tree and not an accepted practice.

Sometimes, however, removal is the preferred option of the homeowner. Before removing a tree, our qualified arborists will try to look at different management options and encourage homeowners to retain their trees where safety is not a concern or the trees are not in significant decline.

Are There Any Laws That Restrict Tree Removal In Tasmania?

Tree removal in Tasmania is governed by federal and state acts and is enforced through the Tasmanian Planning Scheme or Interim Planning Scheme 2015. A council has the authority to regulate tree removal on both public and private land within their municipality, while additional tree protection can be enforced depending on the zone and code overlay the tree is in.

If a tree is not protected by federal or state acts or a local Planning Scheme, then it may not require approval prior to removal. Vegetation exemptions for the Planning Schemes can be found on the Tasmanian Government iplan website under “Administration”. It is recommended, however, that you clarify the requirements with your council prior to modifying or removing a tree.

Do I Need Approval Or A Permit To Cut A Tree In Glenorchy City Council?

There are many exemptions to tree removal in Glenorchy City Council, however, if you are thinking about removing or pruning a tree in the municipality, it’s important to check with the Council whether you need a Planning Permit prior to any works.

You can download a Planning Permit application form by clicking here.

How Do I Contact Glenorchy City Council?

Phone on 03 6216 6800 and ask to speak to a Development Appraisal Planner or email [email protected] if you have a question about tree or vegetation removal on private property.

To learn more visit the Glenorchy City Council website.

Neighbouring Trees

If you have a concern relating to a tree on your neighbour’s property, we recommend you speak with your neighbour directly about it. Alternatively, the Neighbourhood Disputes about Plants Act 2017 details tree work that is considered appropriate.

My Tree Does Not Need A Permit And I Would Like To Get It Removed. What’s Next?

If removal is a must, we encourage you to hire a professional with experience and insurance. This will ensure the works are undertaken safely, with no damage done to your property or to neighbouring trees.

As Tasmanian Tree Care, we have decades of combined experience, are fully qualified, insured, and are passionate about trees. Get in touch with us to organise an obligation free quote.
Please note that all information provided in this article is for general use only. If you are unsure about the legislation surrounding the protection of trees on your property, we advise you to contact your local council.

More Blog Posts

May 7, 2024

Preparing Your Trees For Tasmanian Winters

Trees can provide amenity and value to your property. However, they don’t always grow strong, straight and healthy.

read post
May 1, 2024

Management And Treatment Of Phytophthora Dieback In Tasmania

Here in Tasmania, phytophthora poses a serious danger to at least 35 rare and threatened plants. The vegetation types most affected are heathland, moorlands, dry sclerophyll forest and scrub.

read post
April 16, 2024

Controlling Anthracnose: Colletotrichum And Other Fungal Diseases In Tasmania

Anthracnose is a group of fungal diseases that affects plants typically in warm or humid areas. Even so, Anthracnose can infect plants in temperate climates like Tasmania given the right conditions.

read post
Get in touch to discuss your project
enquire now
Transform Your Space with Expert Tree Care Services


From expert tree care and land management to specialised consultant, our team offers a wide range of services to meet all your arboricultural needs. We deliver reliable, sustainable, and tailored solutions for your property.

Contact us now for a free consultation and experience the professional service our experts provide!