Tree and Vegetation Management

Trees on public land are essential to the unique character of Noosa Shire. They provide shade in parks, cool and soften building landscapes, enhance streetscapes and support our local wildlife with food and shelter. 

Urban trees offer a cooling effect that can notably reduce summer energy consumption, prevent soil erosion, filter wind, reduce noise and air pollutants, store carbon, and produce oxygen. While trees bring many benefits, they can also pose risks to people and property. Council aims to balance these risks by responsibly managing trees as valuable assets when safe to do so. Our Tree Management on Public Land Policy defines Council's responsibilities and management practices for trees. Any public requests regarding trees should align with this policy. 

Trees near powerlines 

Energex manages pruning for street trees that are within 1.5 meters of or in direct contact with overhead powerlines. For more information, please contact Energex at 13 12 53 or visit their website: Energex - Trees and Powerlines.  

Trees along Main Roads 

Trees on main or arterial roads are managed by the Department of Transport and Main Roads (DTMR). For fallen trees or other enquiries, please contact DTMR at 13 19 40 or complete their online form. 

Trees in National Park  

For fallen trees or other tree-related inquiries, please contact the Department of Tourism, Science and Innovation at 13 74 68 or visit their website: https://www.desi.qld.gov.au/contactus. 

Under The Neighbourhood Disputes (Dividing Fences and Trees) Act 2011, property owners are legally permitted to prune overhanging branches up to their property boundary.  

Pruning must comply with Australian Standards AS4373-2007 Pruning of Amenity Trees, ensuring the tree’s health and structural integrity are maintained.  

Residents are responsible for disposing of green waste generated from pruning. While Noosa Council acknowledges that this can be challenging, managing green waste independently helps Council allocate resources to essential community services. Please note that illegal dumping of garden waste is prohibited and may result in fines. For more details, refer to our factsheet: illegal green waste disposal. 

When to contact Council  

If overhanging branches or trees pose a safety risk or impact infrastructure, you can request a tree assessment through Council. A qualified arborist will assess the situation to determine whether the work is classified as essential or non-essential. 

Neighbourhood Disputes on Private Property 

For disputes related to trees on private property, please refer to the Queensland Government’s guidelines on resolving neighbourhood tree disputes. 

Proactive Tree Management

Council proactively manages trees to ensure public safety, environmental preservation and the long-term health of trees. Maintenance may include pruning for pedestrian and vehicle clearance, improving line of sight or addressing health-related concerns. All tree condition assessments and maintenance decisions are conducted by a qualified arborist (AQF Level 5 or higher) to ensure a balanced outcome for the community and environment. 

Pruning is carried out only when necessary to maintain safety and tree health, as over-pruning can lead to structural issues and increase the risk of rot, decay, and fungal pathogens. When required, root barriers may also be installed to prevent damage to nearby structures. All works are prioritized based on safety ratings and undertaken by qualified staff. 

Is Your Concern Eligible for Tree Maintenance? 

Before submitting a request, consider the following checklist: 

• Does the tree present an unacceptable hazard posing significant risk to people or buildings?
• Is the tree causing issues with nearby utilities or structures and have alternative solutions been explored?
• Does the tree have dead, dying, diseased, or defective branches requiring pruning for safety?
• Are branches obstructing buildings, service lines, pedestrian pathways or vehicle access?
• Is pruning necessary to improve vehicle sight lines, public signage visibility or meet Department of Transport and Main Roads requirements?
• Is root pruning required to prevent damage to structures or eliminate trip hazards? 

Council WILL NOT undertake the following works: 

• Removal or pruning of trees to benefit private views 
• Removal of healthy and stable trees that do not present an unacceptable risk 
• Removal of trees to facilitate private construction works including fences 
• Removal or pruning of trees for leaf, flower, fruit, minor branch or sap drop, or animal faeces 
• Removal of trees which are inhibiting grass growth, shading property or shading solar panels 
• Removal of trees which are claimed to be damaging water or sewage pipes, unless evidence is provided that indicates that tree roots are the cause of the damage 
• Pruning of trees contrary to Australian Standard 4373:2007 Pruning of Amenity Trees 
• Pruning of trees for private and commercial signage 
• Vegetation works that will cause the tree to decline or die. 

Non Essential Tree Works at Applicant's Expense 

In special cases, Council may approve non-essential tree works outside the property boundary at the applicant's expense. This requires a tree permit application and the use of Council approved contractors

Submitting a Tree Maintenance Request 

If you are concerned about a tree on Council-controlled land and believe it meets the eligibility criteria, you can request a tree maintenance inspection. A qualified arborist will assess the tree and determine the best course of action based on Council guidelines, balancing safety, community needs and tree health. 

Helpful tip: Supplying high quality images that clearly depict the specific issue will help reduce the time it takes to determine a resolution.  

How tree works are prioritised: 

If tree works are deemed necessary, Council schedules works based on risk: 

• Low-risk works: These will be completed within 60 days of the request. 
• High-risk works: These will be prioritised for completion as soon as possible, including urgent work within 24 hours. 

Additional Information For more details, please refer to our FAQs related to tree maintenance and management. 

In special cases, Council may approve non-essential tree works outside the property boundary at the applicant's expense. Approval requires the submission of a tree permit application and the use of Council-approved contractors. The permit process will assess the benefits and risks of tree removal, ensuring that community safety is maintained and that the function of the road verge is not compromised. 

Applicants are encouraged to submit their permit application at least 6 weeks prior to the planned commencement of work. Once received, Council will process and action the permit application within 10 business days. 

Approval to Clear Vegetation on Road Verges 

Approval to clear vegetation on a road verge is required under Council's Subordinate Local Law No. 1 (Administration) 2016, Schedule 4 - Alteration or Improvement to Local Government Controlled Areas and Roads. Each permit application is assessed individually based on the proposed works' suitability, risks and impact. 

Permit Application Process

 A permit may be granted for the removal or damage of vegetation or street trees assessed as low value. Where applicable, Council may require the planting of replacement tree(s) of a specified species and size, to be undertaken in accordance with Council requirements and at the property owner's expense. A non-refundable application fee applies and must be paid at the time of application submission.  

How to Apply 

• Submit your application(PDF, 226KB) via email to mail@noosa.qld.gov.au or at Council's customer service counter in Tewantin. 
• Include the completed permit application form and proof of payment to the non-refundable application fee. 
• Council will conduct a site visit, and the application will be assessed based on the provided documentation and the suitability of the proposed works. 
• A bond is required upon assessment, which will be confirmed once your application is approved. 

Bond Requirements 

A bond is required to cover potential damage to existing infrastructure or vegetation. The amount will be confirmed during the assessment of the application and will depend on the scope of the proposed works. 

Important: The permit will not be issued until the bond has been paid in full. The bond will be refunded once: 

• The activity is completed. 
• Photos of the completed works have been submitted. 
• Council is satisfied that no damage has occurred to existing vegetation or infrastructure beyond what was permitted. 

If your application is unsuccessful, you will not be required to pay the bond, however your application fee will not be refunded. 

Council does not permit residents to plant trees on nature strips. Trees on road verges are considered communal assets, offering significant environmental benefits. To ensure the longevity and health of these trees, Council manages planting initiatives by selecting appropriate species for each location, ensuring they thrive as valuable assets for the future. 

Request a Tree Planting 

If you would like a tree planted in a specific location, please follow these steps: 

• Contact Us: Share your interest in tree planting by phone, email or through our online request form. 
• Register Your Request: We will add your details to our register of areas where residents support tree planting.
• Site Assessment: Our team will evaluate each proposed site carefully and assess against our urban greening roadmap, considering factors such as species suitability, climate resilience and potential long-term impacts.
• Sustainability First: While we aim to meet community preferences, our priority is ensuring the sustainability and health of our future landscape. We will facilitate your request while safeguarding the long-term viability of our urban environment. 

We are committed to working with you to enhance our community’s green spaces, creating a more beautiful and resilient environment for everyone to enjoy. 

Alternatively, you can apply for a Permit for road-verge (nature strip) planting and landscaping. Permits are assessed on a case by case basis. A bond may also be applicable depending on the extent of the works and will be quoted on assessment of the application. 

A tree on Council land is overhanging my fence – will Council trim it? 

Council does not typically undertake pruning of overhanging vegetation. Under The Neighbourhood Disputes (Dividing Fences and Trees) Act 2011, property owners are legally permitted to prune overhanging branches up to their property boundary. 

However, if the overhanging branches are large and pose a safety hazard, Council arborists will assess the situation and may carry out necessary works to address the issue. Any tree pruning carried out must adhere to Australian Standards AS4373-2007 Pruning of Amenity Trees. 

Will Council remove a tree on Council land that is dropping leaves into my property and along the front verge, causing a nuisance? 

No, under Council’s Tree Management on Public Land Policy, trees are not removed due to nuisances such as dropping leaves, fruit, flowers, small branches or palm fonds. Removing trees for these reasons would significantly reduce the urban tree canopy, negatively impacting the environment. Additionally, it would be financially prohibitive and divert public funds away from other essential projects and services. 

Residents with concerns about a tree situated within Council controlled land, can request a tree maintenance inspection. Tree inspections are conducted by a qualified arborist, who will assess the tree and determine the best course of action, based on Council’s guidelines. 

The tree next to my property is too tall. It might be dangerous in a storm and damage my house. Can I remove it? 

While there is always a possibility that a tree may fail in severe weather, healthy and well-maintained trees around a building can actually provide protection by helping to dissipate wind force. Removing the tree would leave your property fully exposed to wind, potentially increasing the risk of damage. The Council conducts regular tree assessments carried out by a qualified arborist (AQF Level 5 or higher). These assessments help determine when maintenance is necessary to ensure the tree remains in good condition and reduces the risk of damage during storms. 

A tree on the footpath (or foreshore) in front of my property is blocking my view. Can I remove it? 

No, you are not allowed to remove, prune or top a Council owned tree and, if you do, you may be subject to prosecution under Council Local Laws and State Laws regarding tree protection. The tree may also be an important host tree for rare and threatened species of fauna and flora and its removal may negatively affect the aesthetic character of the area. Lopping or topping a tree may make it dangerous due to the regrowth of epicormic branches or it may worsen tree structure or lead to fungal infection or weaken the tree, making it unstable or susceptible to failure. 

There is a termite nest in a tree on Council land and I am worried it may harm my property. What can I do?  

Termites are naturally found in the environment and play an important ecological role. Council does not have any legal responsibility to treat termite infestations in trees or on land under its control, nor is Council liable for any damage to private property caused by termites originating from Council land. Additionally, the presence of termites in trees does not necessarily mean the tree is structurally comprised. 

For termite control on public property, such as parks and reserves, please contact Council. However, for private property, the responsibility for termite prevention and treatment lies with the property owner. 

Recommended termite prevention actions: 

• Conduct regular inspections through a licensed pest controller to detect termites and damage. 
• Use termite-resistant and preservative-treated timber for new fences. 
• Minimise cracks in concrete slabs by consolidating soil before laying the slab. 
• Repair leaking pipes and improve ventilation in sub-floors to prevent ideal conditions for termites. 
• Inspect second-hand timber and furniture before bringing it onto your property. 
• Avoid placing gardens directly against walls. 
• Do not stack firewood against your property, including homes, garages, and sheds. 

Roots from a tree on Council land have blocked my stormwater pipes or cracked my driveway – what will Council do about it? 

Cracked footpaths and other infrastructure issues can result from a variety of factors, not solely tree roots. Natural processes such as daily earth movement, soil compaction, or ground settlement are often contributing causes. While trees may sometimes lead to minor damage to footpaths, street curbs, paving, and driveways, it’s worth noting that these structures are typically lightweight and may lack sufficient reinforcement, making them more vulnerable to impacts from a range of environmental conditions. 

Under Council’s Tree Management on Public Land Policy, work to remove tree roots will only be undertaken if credible evidence is provided confirming that the roots originate from a Council-owned tree and are causing damage. This evidence must include video or photographic documentation from licensed professionals, obtained at the property owner’s expense. Trees will not be removed based on suspicion alone. 

If it is confirmed that the roots are from a Council tree and they have damaged pipes or other private infrastructure, Council will remove the roots. The property owner may then submit an insurance claim to Council’s Governance section for assessment.  

Does Council replace trees that are removed? 

Yes, under Council’s Tree Management on Public Land Policy, Council is committed to replacing any trees that are removed. Whenever possible, replanting is done at or near the original location of the removed tree. If this is not feasible due to space constraints, trees are planted in other areas to offset the overall loss of canopy. 

Council conducts significant tree planting annually throughout the Noosa Shire, particularly in bushland reserves. These areas allow trees to grow naturally in suitable soils, pose minimal risk, and require less maintenance.