Clearing of native vegetation

The State Environmental Planning Policy (Biodiversity and Conservation) 2021 allows for Council to assess and issue applications for the clearing of Native Vegetation that does not exceed the Biodiversity Offsets Scheme (BOS) thresholds. These application are known as a Private tree works application. However, a Private Tree Works Application cannot be used for the pruning or clearing of trees or other native vegetation, where the trees are part of a ‘vegetation community (complex)’.

Clearing of native vegetation that is part of a ‘vegetation community (complex)’ will require a Biodiversity Conservation Licence from the Department of Infrastructure, Environment and Planning. This contrasts with clearing single or a few isolated trees under a private tree works application that might not be considered part of a community complex.

Council does not also accept applications for the clearing of trees or vegetation under a private tree works application that are associated with development, such as matters generally covered under a development application.

Contact Councils Customer service on 02 4306 7900 for further advice.