Significant tree permit

A permit is required to prune or remove a significant tree or palm under Community Amenity Local Law (2023), Clause 55.

A significant tree permit is required in addition to any planning permit required by the Port Phillip Planning Scheme.

Exemptions: Some pruning and tree removal maybe exempt from obtaining a permit. Details of exemptions are in Community Amenity Local Law 2023. Contact Development Permits (see below) if further clarification is required.

Definition of a Significant Tree

A Significant Tree means a tree or palm on private land:

  • with a trunk circumference of 150 centimeters or greater measured 1 metre from its base
  • a multi-stemmed tree where the circumference of its exterior stems equals or is greater than 150 centimetres when measured 1 metre from its base or
  • if the tree has been removed, a trunk circumference of 150 centimetres or greater measured at its base or the circumference of multi stems at its base.

Application requirements

The applicant is required to:

  • Submit a complete application form and pay the application fee.
  • Include a site plan or drawing to clarify the tree location.
  • Provide detailed documentation, including photographs or diagrams, outlining the proposed extent of pruning or removal.
  • Provide written consent from the Body Corporate Manager or Committee of Management (if applicable).

Our process:

  • Applications are reviewed by our Arborist who will provide a recommendation.
  • The applicant will then be notified of the decision.
  • Please allow 10 business days. Pruning or removal of a significant tree must not occur without a permit.

What does the permit cost?

Application fee to prune a significant tree, including palm, dead frond removal: $165.00, or

Application fee to remove a significant tree: $280.00

Please refer to our Fee Schedule for a list of all permit fees and charges: Development Permits Fee Schedule 2024-25.pdf (740KB)

How do I lodge my application?

Follow these steps to apply online:

  1. Register or log in using registration details
  2. Apply for a permit
  3. Select permit type
  4. Address
  5. Lodge
  6. Confirmation - Accept terms and conditions of use
  7. Summary - Attach any required documents
  8. Payment - Securely pay by credit card

Alternatively, you can submit a Significant Tree (Pruning or Removal) Permit Application (PDF 117 KB) form along with all required documents via email, post or in person. If your application is approved, the fee (if applicable) must be paid before the permit can be issued. A card payment fee applies.

Contact us

Our City Permits team is here to help.

Send us a message online on My Port Phillip.

Phone: 03 9209 6216 Monday to Friday, 8.30 am to 5 pm.