Understanding Hornsby Council’s Tree Exemption Rules
Our local Level 5 Arborists assist property owners across Hornsby, Asquith, Wahroonga, Thornleigh, Normanhurst, Mount Colah, Mount Kuring-gai and Berowra, providing on-site inspections, species identification and confirmation of exempt trees.
Some trees in the Hornsby Council area can be pruned or removed without a permit if they meet Council’s exemption criteria. If the tree is over 3 metres tall, has a trunk diameter over 150 mm (DBH), is located in a Heritage Conservation Area, or is not listed as exempt, Council approval is required.
When Do I Need a Permit?
You will need Council approval if any of the following apply:
- The tree is over 3 metres tall
- The trunk is over 150 mm DBH
- It is a protected native species
- It is located in a Heritage Conservation Area
- It forms part of a DA or CDC development
- The works will impact the TPZ or SRZ
- The tree is not listed as an exempt species
Hornsby Council Exempt Tree Species (2025)
We Help You Confirm Tree Status
- On-site Level 5 inspection
- Species identification
- Written exemption confirmation
- Permit guidance
- Full Arborist Reports if required
- AS 4373 & AS 4970-Compliant documentation
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my tree is exempt?
We identify the species, measure trunk size and confirm exemption on-site.
Can you provide documentation confirming exemption?
Yes, written exemption confirmation is available when the tree meets Council criteria.
What if the tree isn’t exempt?
We prepare the Level 5 Arborist Report required for Council assessment and applications.
Do you handle Council documentation?
Yes, all reports and documents are formatted for the NSW Planning Portal.
Are exempt trees always safe to remove?
Not always, we assess structural condition and overall health before advising on removal.
Need Help Confirming Whether Your Tree Is Exempt?
Contact our Level 5 Arborists for species identification, exemption checks and compliant documentation before pruning or removal.
Get Started in Minutes
Call now or email us for fast, expert help with your tree permit or report. Rest easy, we handle everything from start to finish.
