By the Safer Trees Melbourne team · Updated 16/09/2026
There is no single statewide rule for removing trees on private land in Victoria. Whether you need approval depends on your council, your property and the tree itself. Here is how to work it out.
The three places tree controls come from
1. Planning scheme overlays
Each council's planning scheme can place overlays on properties. The ones that most often affect trees are the Vegetation Protection Overlay, Significant Landscape Overlay, Environmental Significance Overlay and Heritage Overlay. If your property has one of these, removing or even heavily pruning a tree may need a planning permit.
2. Native vegetation rules
Victoria has statewide rules protecting native vegetation, although there are exemptions, including for many smaller residential lots. Large native trees on bigger properties, acreage and land near waterways are the most likely to be affected.
3. Council local laws
Some councils also protect significant trees through local laws, often based on the size of the trunk. These apply even where there is no overlay.
How to check your property
- Look up your address on VicPlan, the Victorian Government's planning map, to see which overlays apply.
- Check your council's website for tree local laws or a significant tree register.
- If you are unsure, call your council's planning department with your address.
Dead, dying and dangerous trees
Most schemes include exemptions for trees that are dead or present an immediate risk to people or property. Councils generally still expect evidence, such as photos or an arborist's assessment, and you should keep it in case questions come up later.
Bushfire exemptions
In some bushfire-prone areas, vegetation close to an existing home can be cleared without a permit under specific bushfire exemptions. The rules are detailed, so check with your council or the CFA before relying on them.
When an arborist report helps
If your tree needs a permit, a clear arborist report explaining its condition and risk gives council what it needs to decide. We prepare arborist reports for permit applications and can carry out the work once approval comes through.
This article is general information only. Always confirm the rules for your property with your council before removing a tree.