What Trees Can Not Be Cut Down?

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In New South Wales (NSW), not every tree can be removed or lopped just because it’s in your yard. Some trees are protected under local council Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) or state biodiversity laws. If you're wondering what trees can not be cut down, you're not alone. It’s one of the most common questions homeowners in Western Sydney ask.

Whether you're dealing with a potentially hazardous gum tree or just looking to tidy your garden, understanding tree protections is vital to avoid fines — and to protect our natural ecosystem.

🌳 What Are Protected Trees in NSW?

Protected trees in NSW are those safeguarded under local council regulations or state environmental laws. These rules vary by council, but they often protect:

Native species, especially those classified as threatened or significant habitat providers
Heritage trees or trees in heritage-listed areas
Trees over a certain height or trunk diameter
Trees in conservation zones or on public land

Before any tree removal or even pruning, it’s critical to check your local Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or Development Control Plan (DCP).

Tip: Visit the NSW Planning Portal or your local council's website for current tree regulations.

If you're in Western Sydney, GDE Tree Services can assist with checking council rules before proceeding with:

Who Can Legally Work on Protected Trees?

Not everyone is qualified to assess or work on a protected tree. You need a certified arborist in Australia with proper training and insurance.

So, what is an arborist?

An arborist is a tree care specialist trained in the science and practice of planting, maintaining, and managing trees. They understand:

Tree health assessments
Legal guidelines for tree works
Risk management and safe removal techniques

Tree Surgeon vs Arborist vs Tree Lopper: What's the Difference?

Let’s break down some commonly confused roles in tree work:

Title Description

Arborist A qualified, certified professional trained in the long-term care of trees.

Tree Surgeon A term often used interchangeably with arborist. However, in Australia, arborist is the proper designation.

Tree Lopper Usually refers to someone who performs quick, heavy cutting, often without regard to tree health or regulations.

Arborist vs Tree Lopper in Sydney is a critical distinction. Arborists follow codes of practice, especially when dealing with protected trees in NSW. Tree loppers may not, and hiring one could risk heavy penalties if unauthorised work is done on a protected species.

What Happens If You Cut Down a Protected Tree?

Cutting or damaging a protected tree without approval can result in:

Fines of up to $1.1 million for corporations and $220,000 for individuals under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.

That’s why we strongly recommend a qualified arborist near you to evaluate and manage any tree-related work — especially if it’s large, native, or heritage-listed.

At GDE Tree Services Western Sydney, our team handles:

FAQs – Your Tree Questions Answered

Is a tree surgeon the same as an arborist?

A tree surgeon is often used as a synonym, but in Australia, a certified arborist is the recognised, qualified professional.

What does a tree surgeon do?

They remove, prune, and treat trees — but in Australia, this is part of an arborist's job description.

What is tree surgery?

Tree surgery involves the treatment of tree diseases, structural issues, and damage. It can include pruning, bracing, and disease management.

What qualifications does an arborist need in Australia?

A minimum of a Certificate III in Arboriculture (AHC30820), often with years of hands-on experience, plus insurance.

What’s the difference between tree pruning and tree lopping?

Tree pruning is the selective trimming to enhance health and structure.
Tree lopping is more aggressive cutting, often done to reduce height or remove limbs. It may not always be tree-safe if not carried out properly.

Final Thoughts: Always Check Before You Cut

Trees are essential to our local ecosystem — they offer shade, shelter, and support biodiversity. But before you reach for a chainsaw, know which protected trees in NSW are off-limits and get professional advice.

If you’re unsure whether your tree can be removed or not, we can help. GDE Tree Services is your local arborist service in Western Sydney, fully qualified, insured, and council-compliant.