Perth Tree Removal Permits & Replacement Rules

Land Use and Zoning Western Australia 4 Minutes Read ยท published February 11, 2026 Flag of Western Australia

Introduction

Perth, Western Australia regulates removal and pruning of trees on public and private land to protect canopy, heritage and verge amenity. This guide explains when a permit is needed, replacement standards, who enforces the rules and how to apply or appeal. It summarises official City of Perth guidance and local-law controls and identifies common actions property owners must take to comply. Sources cited are official City of Perth pages; where a specific penalty, fee or deadline is not shown on the cited page, the text notes "not specified on the cited page" and the material is current as of February 2026.

Check whether the tree is on private property or on the verge before applying.

When permits are required

Permit requirements depend on ownership, tree significance, size and whether works are in a conservation area or listed in a heritage register. Generally:

  • Removal or major pruning of street or verge trees requires council approval. See council guidance[1].
  • Protected or significant trees on private land may require development approval under the local planning scheme.
  • Emergency removal for safety may be allowed but usually must be reported to the council promptly.
Work on verge trees without approval can result in enforcement action.

Replacement standards

Councils typically require replacement planting or contributions when a regulated tree is removed. Standards address species, planting location, spacing and ongoing maintenance. The City of Perth sets local guidance for suitable species and may require a replacement tree of a minimum size or a monetary contribution to a planting program; specific measures are set on the council page cited below[1].

  • Replacement timing: councils often require planting within a defined period after removal; check the approval conditions.
  • Species choice: councils prefer native or locally suitable species that avoid infrastructure damage.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is carried out by the council's compliance or local laws officers; planning breaches may also lead to action under the local planning scheme.

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page[2].
  • Escalation: first, repeat and continuing offences and ranges are not specified on the cited page[2].
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to replant or remediate, stop-work notices and court action may be used; specific statutory orders are referenced on council pages[2].
  • Enforcer and complaints: By-law Enforcement or Parks & Leisure teams handle street-tree matters; contact details and reporting channels are on the council website[2].
  • Appeal/review: appeal paths for planning decisions may include the State Administrative Tribunal; specific time limits are not specified on the cited page[2].
  • Defences/discretion: emergency works, approved permits, or reasonable excuse (e.g., safety risk) are routine defences but should be documented and reported immediately.
Keep records and photos when seeking emergency removal to support your case.

Applications & Forms

Council publishes specific forms and online request pages for street-tree works and for planning applications where private trees are regulated. Where a particular form number or fee is not published on the council page, that detail is "not specified on the cited page"; applicants should use the council online application portal or contact the parks team for the correct form and fee information[1].

How to comply - action steps

  1. Identify ownership: confirm whether the tree is on verge (council) or private property.
  2. Check the council tree pages and local planning scheme for protected listings.
    When in doubt, contact the council before taking any action.
  3. Apply for a permit using the council's online form or submit a development application if required.
  4. If removal is approved, follow replacement conditions and pay any required contribution or bond.
  5. Report emergency removals immediately to the council and keep evidence.

FAQ

Do I need council permission to remove a street tree?
Yes. Removing or major pruning of a street or verge tree normally requires council approval; use the council request page to apply.[1]
What if a tree on my property is dangerous?
Immediate action for safety is usually permitted, but you must notify the council and retain evidence; follow up with an application if retrospective approval is required.
How much will replacement cost?
Replacement requirements and fees vary; specific fees are not specified on the cited page and applicants should consult the council for current charges.[1]

How-To

  1. Confirm tree ownership and check the council street-tree guidance page.
  2. Photograph the tree, note risks and collect any arborist reports.
  3. Complete the council's tree removal or pruning request form and attach evidence.
  4. Await council decision and comply with any replacement or remediation conditions.
  5. If refused, request a review or lodge an appeal as directed in the decision notice.

Key Takeaways

  • Street and protected trees are regulated and usually need council approval.
  • Replacement planting or contribution is commonly required when a regulated tree is removed.
  • Contact the council first for forms, fees and reporting emergency removals.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Perth - Trees and vegetation (guidance and request pages)
  2. [2] City of Perth - Local laws, enforcement and policy pages

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