Neighbouring trees
Does your neighbour's tree hang over your property? Is the tree causing damage to your property?
The first thing to do is talk to your neighbour about any issues you may have regarding their tree. Council cannot resolve disputes over trees and damage to private property.
It’s important to have as much detail as possible to inform your discussion with your neighbour. This could include an arborist report showing that the tree is causing damage, photographs, videos and quotes for the cost of removal/pruning of the tree and/or the repair of damage.
If you intend to undertake work without the consent of your neighbour, you can only undertake the work from your property. It is unlawful to enter a neighbour’s property without the owner’s consent.
You can prune the branches of a tree overhanging their property to the property boundary line. If the tree is less than six metres tall, you do not need Council permission to undertake this pruning.
Where the tree dispute cannot be resolved, the matter can be referred to the Community Justice Centre for assistance with mediation.
Visit Community Justice Centres (CJC) or phone 1800 990 777.
If mediation is unsuccessful, you may wish to make an application to the NSW Land and Environment Court under the provisions of the Trees (Disputes between Neighbours) Act 2006.
To check If Council is your approver, please click Vegetation Clearing Map User Guide
It is essential that if you are applying for a tree clearance permit that you provide evidence that shows that your property is in the area using the above tool.
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