What Trees are Protected in Australia?

While it is often easier to beg for forgiveness than ask for permission, when it comes to protected trees it’s best not to risk it. If you are wanting to have a tree removed, pruned, or  trimmed, it’s best to first check whether your tree is protected or not. As professional arborists, we know a thing or two about protected trees and how to best proceed 

What does it mean if a tree is protected?

A protected tree is a tree that has been identified as valuable and should not be removed or damaged. 

Protected trees tend to have chosen due to their:

  • Historic and/or culture significance
  • Unique size, location or physical characteristics
  • Rarity, especially in the case of endangered species
  • Horticulture value
  • Connection to the community and environment 
  • Reason of plantation, example as part of a local or state level vegetation program

If a tree is protected, you won’t be able to damage or remove it without a permit. If you perform works on a protected tree, you could be slapped with a pretty substantial fine or even be required to go to Environmental and Land Court. 

Types of regulation

There are few different types of regulation when it comes to tree protection. Australian states and territories have their own specific rules when it comes to protecting chosen tree species and so do individual councils. You will also find that the process of applying for a permit and penalties for disobeying will also vary depending on specific state/territory and council. 

How to know if your tree is protected

The best way to determine whether the tree you want to remove or perform maintenance on is protected, is to consult a professional arborist. They’ll be able to identify whether it is a protected species, the type of removal or maintenance it requires and how to perform it. An experienced arborist will also assist you in how to apply for a permit if your tree is required. 

You can also check some of the tree species we’ve listed below and get in touch with your local council directly. 

Protected trees in ACT

The ACT states that trees which fall under the label of protection are:

  • Located on Territory land 
  • 12 metres or more in height 
  • Listed on the ACT tree register

Common protected species include:

  • Eucalyptus polyanthemos (Red Box)
  • Ulmus parvifolia (Chinese Elm)
  • Eucalyptus melliodora (Yellow Box)

Protected trees in New South Wales

Tree removal restrictions in NSW are usually determined by the local council, however if you live in close proximity to bushland or any area which is at risk of bushfire then consult the 10/50 vegetation clearing entitlement. 

Common protected species include:

  • Camphor Laurel
  • Chinese Nettle Tree
  • Coral Tree

Protected trees in Northern Territory

In the Northern Territory, protected trees can either be considered sacred (trees with cultural significance or located on sacred sites) which is determined by the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority, or significant which are registered by Land and Garden for Wildlife Central Australia on their Significant Tree Register. 

 

Some common protected species include:

  • Adansonia gregorii (Boab)
  • Paperbarks
  • Ficus viren (Banyan)

Protected trees in South Australia

Protected trees in South Australia include regulated (trees with a circumference of 2 metres or more) and significant (trees with a circumference of 3 metres or more) trees.

 

Common species include:

  • Any native species (including  kauri, totara and pokuhatawa)
  • Sugar gam
  • Jacaranda

Protected trees in Victoria

Victoria has the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 which lists a range of different protected tree and plant species. You can find the full list of protected trees here. You can also find trees regulated by each council here. 

 

Some common protected species include:

  • Wattle trees (Acacia species) 
  • Paperbarks
  • Eucalyptus trees such as avon peppermint and yellow gum

Protected trees in Tasmania

Trees in Tasmania are protected by either having significant status (usually determined by local council) or are considered vulnerable, rare or threatened by the State’s Department of Natural Resources and Environment.

Some protected species include: 

  • Morisby’s gum (eucalyptus)
  • Stuart’s heath
  • Black gum

Protected trees in Western Australia

Majority of tree protection in Western Australia is enforced by council and local Government. 

Some common protected species include:

  • Moreton bay figs
  • Garry oaks
  • Tuarts

Council regulation

While it’s good to understand which trees may be protected on a state and territory level, council regulation will be most specific to you. Check with your local council about which tree species are protected or regulated, and how to apply for a permit if required.

Contact your local Jim’s franchise to further discuss your tree removal requirements and whether you are required to apply for a specialised permit.

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