Tree & Vegetation Clearing
Trees and vegetation on private property
Council regulates vegetation removal (plants and trees) from private land (freehold). The planning scheme requires a permit to clear vegetation on all private land in the shire.
It is an offence to damage or remove protected trees and plants without a permit or exemption and penalties may apply.
Clearing in a mapped Biodiversity Overlay area (Environment Protection/Enhancement or Riparian Buffer) for a house or shed will require a separate Material Change of Use permit. Please contact Council or a building certifier for further information.
Applying for approval to remove vegetation on private property
To remove protected vegetation please submit the completed Clearing of Vegetation on Private Property Application Form, including a plan showing the location of the vegetation, to Council.
Submit the completed form and any supporting material to the development counter at level 2, 9 Pelican Street, Tewantin. Forms can also be emailed to Noosa Council or post to:
Noosa Council
PO Box 141
TEWANTIN QLD 4565
Note: Council charges an assessment fee of $56 per tree up to a maximum of 8 trees (ie: 6 trees = $336.00). Fees for 9 or more trees will be priced on application. Council will issue a payment link on receipt of the application and once payment is received Council will conduct an assessment and determine a decision or whether further information may be required.
Exemptions
Residents do not need approval if vegetation removal is exempt clearing.
Vegetation may also be protected by:
- covenants
- drainage easements
- development approval conditions.
Further Information
There may be a requirement to undertake a Flora Survey pursuant to Flora Survey Guidelines prior to any clearing activities pursuant to Chapter 4 of the Nature Conservation Wildlife Management Regulation 2006. Further information can be obtained at this website or by calling the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection on 1300 130 372.
There may also be a requirement to obtain State Government Approval of a Species Management Plan prior to any activities that tamper with any place that is being used by a native animal for breeding activities. Further information regarding this matter can be obtained at this website or by calling the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection on 1300 130 372.
If there is remnant vegetation on your property, such as areas of intact native bush or heathland, a permit may be required from the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection.
All marine plants, such as mangroves, are protected under Queensland's Fisheries Act 1994. For more information visit the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries website.
Neighbouring trees and overhanging branches
The Queensland Government's Neighbourhood Disputes Resolution Act 2011 provides advice for neighbours to help resolve disputes about dividing fences and trees.
The Act states that proper care and maintenance of a tree is the responsibility of the owner of the tree. It provides choices for neighbours on how to resolve tree issues such as overhanging branches.
According to the Act, it is up to the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) to deal with these issues.
Mowing of Road Verges
Road verge and nature strips provide open space that allows safe movement of pedestrians and clear sight lines for vehicles and cyclists. Property owners or residents should maintain turfed areas within the nature strip (excluding street trees) abutting their properties.
Council does not carry out routine mowing of road verges or nature strips abutting private, commercial or industrial property on the basis that owners or residents with civic pride will undertake the activity as a contribution to the amenity of the area which allows Council to direct its resources to other services.
Contacts
For more information contact council customer service centre.