Northern Beaches Council Exempt Tree List
At Northern Beaches Tree Permit Services (backed by Arbor Express), we help homeowners, developers, and builders check if a tree is exempt from needing council approval.
Our Level 5 arborists confirm the species, measure tree size, and manage all council paperwork, so you stay compliant and avoid fines or delays.
Official Exempt Tree Species
The following species found on the below PDF are generally exempt from requiring a permit in the Northern Beaches Council area, unless the tree is heritage-listed or located within a Heritage Conservation Area.
Size & Growth Rules
- Pittosporum spp. – Only exempt if under 8 metres in height
- Dead trees – Exempt if not hollow and not used as native fauna habitat
- Trees under 5 metres – Often exempt if non-native or not a threatened species
- Palms – Generally exempt unless Cabbage Tree Palm or Kentia Palm, and under 5 metres
- Bamboo, vines and weeds – Exempt regardless of size
Important Reminders
- Heritage Areas – Even exempt species may require council approval
- Development Sites – If building or excavating near trees, AS4970-2009 Protection of Trees on Development Sites applies
- Protected Species – Some native or endangered trees are covered under State or Federal law, even if exempt locally
Our Services – Complete Permit Assistance
We provide a full range of services to make your tree management process simple and compliant:
- Tree Removal Permits – For safe, approved tree removal
- Tree Pruning Permits – Required for pruning over the 10% rule
- Emergency Tree Removal – 24/7 response for dangerous trees
- Development Arborist Reports – (DA & CDC) – For council submissions
- Tree Root Investigations – Mapping roots for building and driveway projects
- Exempt Tree List – (information on this page)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How do I know if my tree is exempt from needing a Council permit?
Exempt trees don’t require approval, our arborist can help identify your species and confirm if it’s on the exempt list.
We inspect your tree, cross-check Council criteria, and provide written confirmation or a report if a permit is required.
Q2: Where can I find the official Northern Beaches Council Exempt Tree List?
You can view the full list on our website, our arborist can help confirm if your tree qualifies before any work begins.
See the Northern Beaches Council Exempt Tree List or contact us for expert verification before removing or pruning.
Q3: What types of trees are usually exempt under Council rules?
Common exemptions include Cocos Palm, Camphor Laurel, and Privet, our arborist can help identify yours correctly.
We confirm species against council’s database to avoid mistakes, fines or unnecessary applications for unprotected trees.
Q4: Do I need an arborist report if my tree is on the exempt list?
Not always, but our arborist can help provide written confirmation to avoid disputes or council delays.
We issue brief exemption letters or full reports if you need documentation for builders, strata managers or insurance purposes.
Q5: What if my tree isn’t on the exempt list but is causing damage or danger?
Urgent or risk-related removals can still be approved, our arborist can help assess and document the hazard for council.
We provide Level 5 safety inspections and submit compliant evidence supporting emergency or structural damage removals.
We keep this page updated with the latest Council tree management rules and exemptions. Our AQF Level 5 Arborist will confirm whether your tree is exempt or requires a permit, and we will submit all required documentation directly to Council on your behalf.
Northern Beaches Tree Permit Services and Arbor Express are independent providers and are not affiliated with Northern Beaches Council.
Official Northern Beaches Council Resources
Northern Beaches Tree Permit Services is part of Arbor Express, a trusted provider of arborist services across NSW, ACT, and VIC.
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Official Northern Beaches Council Resources
Northern Beaches Tree Permit Services is part of Arbor Express, a trusted provider of arborist services across NSW, ACT, and VIC.
