Thinking About Cutting or Pruning a Tree in Waverley Council?

Before we grab the chainsaw — there’s something you should know.

Not every tree job needs council approval…

but doing it the wrong way can cost you more than you expect.

If you’re based in Bondi, Bronte, Tamarama, Dover Heights or Bondi Junction, this applies to you.

So… Do You Need Approval or Not?

According to Waverley Council, there are situations where you may carry out tree work without submitting an application.

For example:

• When a tree is clearly dead or in decline

• If it presents a real safety risk

• When it’s interfering with structures

• Or when you’re doing light pruning within allowed limits

Sounds simple, right?

Here’s the Catch

Even when approval isn’t required, you’re still expected to justify your decision.

That means being able to show:

• What species the tree is

• Its current condition

• Where it’s located on your property

• Supporting photos

• And sometimes, a professional arborist assessment

👉 In other words — “no approval needed” doesn’t mean “no responsibility”.

⚠️ Where Things Get Risky

Waverley has strong environmental protections in place.

You may NOT be exempt if your property is:

• Heritage-listed

• Inside a Heritage Conservation Area

And mistakes here can lead to fines or compliance action.

What About Problem Trees or Invasive Species?

Some plant species are treated differently under council rules.

But here’s the reality:

misidentifying a tree is one of the most common (and costly) mistakes homeowners make.

What Most Homeowners Do

They assume.

They guess.

They go ahead.

And only realise later that they should’ve checked first.

What Smart Homeowners Do

They get clarity before taking action.

How We Help

At Home Trees, we make the process clear and stress-free.

We look at your tree, explain exactly where you stand, and help you move forward — safely and within Waverley Council guidelines.

✔ On-site inspections

✔ Honest advice

✔ Tree pruning & removal

✔ Arborist reports when needed

✔ Guidance with council requirements

📞 Call Fabiano: 0408 716 264

📧 fabiano@hometrees.com.au

🍂 Book your FREE inspection

For full official guidelines, visit:

https://www.waverley.nsw.gov.au/residents/your_trees,_plants_and_garden/tree_pruning_and_removal

Home Trees — Care today. Protect tomorrow. 🌿