Your Step-by-Step Guide (and Why You Should Call Before You Cut)
If you’ve ever stood in your backyard staring at a big gum tree and wondered, “Do I need a tree removal permit and council approval to remove this?”, you’re not alone. Vegetation clearing and tree removal on the Sunshine Coast isn’t always as simple as grabbing an axe or a chainsaw and getting to work.
Some trees can be removed without talking to the council. Others absolutely need approval, and cutting a protected tree without permission can bring fines or other problems. The best rule of thumb is this: call before you cut.
This Queensland vegetation management guide walks you through what you need to know, how to check if you need approval, and exactly where to go to get it done properly.
Why “Call Before You Cut” Matters
Leaving it until after you’ve felled a tree can land you in trouble. On the Sunshine Coast, council regulates the removal of protected vegetation, which includes certain trees on private land. Cutting down one of these protected trees without approval is against council rules and may attract fines or enforcement action.
Even if a tree looks dead or dangerous, it’s always best to check first. You might be responsible for protected vegetation even if it feels like it’s just part of your garden.
Wildlife Habitat
The Sunshine Coast’s tree canopy is more than aesthetic: it is fundamental to the region’s rich biodiversity and ecological health. Native tree species such as eucalypts, banksias, acacias and melaleucas provide essential habitat, food and shelter for a wide range of wildlife, from birds and bats to insects and small marsupials. Over 1,600 plant and fungi species have been recorded in the region, forming complex ecosystems that support native fauna and contribute to ecological resilience.
WIldlife is an important consideration for councils when removing trees. It’s best to always seek professional advice, as there are strict regulations to protect our Sunshine Coast environment.
Trees also play a critical role in connecting habitat corridors. These corridors enable wildlife to move safely between patches of bushland, which is especially important in urbanising landscapes. Removing trees without appropriate assessment can fragment habitat, reducing breeding opportunities and increasing stress on vulnerable species.
What Council Says about Vegetation Clearing on Private Property
Sunshine Coast Council provides clear information online about trees and vegetation:
Tree clearing on private property – you may need a permit to remove protected trees on your land.
➤ Council info: https://www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/pay-and-apply/tree-and-vegetation-management/tree-clearing-on-private-property
Clearing vegetation on road verges (nature strips) – a permit is required to remove any vegetation, including street trees, that is on council-controlled land outside your property boundary.
➤ Council info: https://www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/pay-and-apply/tree-and-vegetation-management/vegetation-on-council-controlled-land
Council treats the area between your property and the road as nature strip or road reserve, and these areas often have street trees that are protected.
When You Do Need Sunshine Coast Council Approval
Here are the common situations when approval will be needed:
- The tree qualifies as protected vegetation
If the tree is classed as protected under council’s planning scheme (for example, because of its size, species or ecological value), you will generally need a permit. - You’re dealing with a street tree or verge vegetation
Any tree or significant vegetation on the nature strip or road reserve requires a permit from council before removal or damage. - The removal involves building work or development
If tree removal is connected to a development application (such as preparing a site for building), council will require a formal development permit.
When You Might Not Need Approval
Even where regulations apply, there are some exceptions — but you should never assume they apply without checking first.
Common scenarios where approval might not be needed
- Trees that are dead or pose an immediate safety risk.
- Minor routine pruning that doesn’t affect the tree’s long-term health.
- Removing certain invasive plant species (this can vary — check the council’s biosecurity info).
These exemptions vary by tree, location and circumstance, and they’re not always obvious. That’s why “call before you cut” is our guiding principle.
How to Apply for Approval (Step-by-Step)
If you determine you do need approval, here’s the general process:
Identify the tree
Write down the tree’s location (backyard, boundary, verge), species, trunk diameter and approximate height. A photo helps.
Check council overlays
Look up your property on Sunshine Coast Council’s mapping tools to see if it’s in a vegetation-protected, environmental, or heritage overlay.
Get an arborist assessment
A qualified arborist can confirm whether the tree is hazardous, protected, or exempt. This report strengthens your application.
Lodge the application
Most permit applications are lodged through council’s online system, with supporting documentation.
Wait for assessment
Council will assess the application, which may include a site visit. You’ll be notified of the outcome and any conditions.
Comply with conditions
If approved, some permits require replacement planting, a pruning plan, or conditions about timing and method of removal.
Quick Sunshine Coast Council Links
Tree clearing on private property
https://www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/pay-and-apply/tree-and-vegetation-management/tree-clearing-on-private-property
Vegetation on council-controlled land (road verge)
https://www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/pay-and-apply/tree-and-vegetation-management/vegetation-on-council-controlled-land
Council’s environmental advice hub
https://www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/environmental-advice
Permit for verge planting and landscaping
https://www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/pay-and-apply/tree-and-vegetation-management/verge-permit-for-planting-and-infrastructure
FAQs about Tree Removal on the Sunshine Coast
Do I need approval to remove any tree on my property?
Not always, but if the tree is classified as protected vegetation under the council planning scheme, then yes, you need council approval before you remove it. Many trees situated on private property form “green belts” connecting groups of vegetation to other groups of vegetation that support the movement of wildlife. The vegetation classifications are imposed by local, state and federal governments.
What about trees on the nature strip outside my fence?
Yes, trees, shrubs and other vegetation on road reserves require a permit from the council to remove or damage. The actual works performed are generally by a council contractor.
Can I prune trees without permission?
Light maintenance pruning that doesn’t threaten the tree’s health is generally fine, but removing major branches, over pruning (greater than 20% canopy loss) or anything that might affect the tree’s health is treated as clearing. Always check if in doubt.
Who can tell me if a tree is protected?
A qualified arborist or Sunshine Coast Council planning officer — it’s worth getting professional advice before you act.
What happens if I remove a tree without approval?
Council can issue fines, enforcement notices, and even require remediation planting. The exact outcome depends on the situation and the tree’s classification.
Final Word: Call Before You Cut
Trees are part of what makes the Sunshine Coast beautiful. They shade our streets, provide habitat for wildlife and add value to our properties. But they’re also regulated for good reasons — safety, ecology and neighbourhood amenity.
If you’re planning tree removal, take a moment to check the rules first. It can save you time, money and stress — and it keeps you on the right side of council requirements.
Need help figuring it out? Contact TreeSafe Australia for a professional arborist assessment and council approval support. It’s the easiest way to stay compliant and protect your property.
