You love the big tree in your backyard, but one day you notice some of its dead branches are about to fall off. If you're thinking about cutting them down by yourself, think again! Without a certified tree removal report, you may be subjected to a heavy fine of thousands of dollars.
What Is the Report?
A tree removal report is a formal document provided by a certified arborist. It contains a comprehensive assessment of a tree, including its species, size, health, and location. Usually, the report will outline the reasons for the tree removal, which may include disease, damage, safety concerns, or obstruction of construction. In the end, the report may also include recommendations for mitigation, such as replanting or tree preservation measures.
Obtaining a tree report is essential to prevent you from ending up on the wrong side of council fines, and it is useful not just for homeowners.
Who Needs It?
Property Owners: Before removing a tree on your property, or clearing land for home renovation, you may need a tree removal report to comply with local council regulations and obtain necessary permits.
Developers and Construction Companies: NSW has one of the strictest environmental policies in Australia. If a development project requires the removal of a large area of vegetation, a removal report is often required as part of the environmental impact assessment and planning approval process.
Arborists and Tree Care Professionals: While these experts are qualified to assess trees and prepare reports themselves, they will benefit from previous assessments, and provide valuable recommendations to the tree’s growth.
Local Councils and Government Agencies: These entities often request a third party to provide tree reports to ensure compliance with tree preservation policies and environmental regulations.
What Happens If You Don’t Have it?
Unauthorised tree removal can lead to severe legal consequences, including hefty fines and potential criminal charges. This is due to the significant environmental damage caused by deforestation, such as soil erosion, habitat destruction, and disruption of the ecosystem.
Additionally, removing trees without permission can decrease property value and lead to disputes with neighbours or local authorities. Likewise, attempting to remove trees without the necessary expertise and equipment can pose serious safety risks.
To avoid these potential problems, it is crucial to always follow local regulations and obtain a report from a professional arborist. Here are some key aspects to keep in mind if you live in NSW:
Tree Removal Regulations in NSW
In NSW, the removal of trees is governed by several laws, primarily the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act), which mandates that most tree removals require prior approval from local councils.
Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) also play a significant role in these regulations, specifying which trees are protected and require permits for removal. Homeowners must be aware that removing a tree without the necessary permissions can lead to hefty fines, ranging from a few thousand to over $100,000, depending on the tree's significance and the nature of the violation.
Some exemptions exist under the 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Scheme, allowing property owners in fire-prone areas to clear trees within 10 metres of their homes without a permit. Additionally, dead or hazardous trees may also be removed without prior approval. However, it’s vital to contact a certified arborist to perform this work. Always check your local council’s regulations, as they may differ from one and another.
Get Your Report Today
At Arbor Co Tree Services, we understand that identifying the health of your trees is crucial for maintaining a safe and beautiful environment. If you've noticed signs of distress in your trees, it is time to consider a professional assessment.
Our fully certified arborists are equipped to provide comprehensive tree removal reports that evaluate the condition of your trees and recommend appropriate actions. The report will contain photographs and professional recommendations tailored to your specific situation.
Don't leave the health of your trees to chance. Contact Arbor Co today to get your tree removal report and ensure the safety and vitality of your landscape.
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