Council rules and permits
Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my property?
Sometimes. In Brisbane City Council's area, the Natural Assets Local Law 2003 protects some trees on private land, including significant landscape trees and vegetation in certain mapped areas. Logan City Council, the City of Ipswich, the City of Moreton Bay and Redland City Council manage vegetation through their own planning schemes and local laws. Check the council's mapping, ask the contractor to check, or call the council before work starts.
What about koalas?
State koala habitat mapping covers parts of south-east Queensland, including areas in Logan, Ipswich, Moreton Bay and the Redlands. Clearing mapped koala habitat can require approval. Separately, if a koala is in or near a tree on the day, work should stop until it moves on.
Can I prune or remove the street tree outside my house?
No. Footpath and park trees belong to the council. Report problems to the council and let it deal with them.
Is camphor laurel illegal?
No, but it is a restricted invasive plant in Queensland. That means you must not sell, give away or release it. You are not generally required to remove it. The same applies to Chinese elm, broad-leaved pepper tree and African tulip tree.
Neighbours
My neighbour's tree hangs over my yard. What can I do?
Talk to your neighbour first. Queensland's Neighbourhood Disputes (Dividing Fences and Trees) Act 2011 sets out how branches overhanging a boundary and trees causing damage are dealt with, including notice requirements before cutting overhanging branches. QCAT can make orders where neighbours cannot agree. Getting a shared quote is often the simplest way forward.
Who pays if a neighbour's tree falls on my house?
It depends on the circumstances and on insurance. Contact your insurer first. If the tree had been reported as dangerous, the neighbourhood disputes law may be relevant, and legal advice may be worth getting.
Power lines
Can a tree near power lines be removed?
Yes, but not by you, and not by just anyone. Work near live lines needs appropriately authorised people. Energex looks after street lines and can advise on others. Mention any wires near the tree when you ask for a quote so the right crew is sent.
What if a tree has brought down a power line?
Stay well clear, keep others away, and call Energex on 13 19 62. If anyone is in danger, call 000.
Stumps
Is the stump included in a tree removal?
Only if the quote says so. Standard removal leaves the stump cut low. Grinding and digging out are normally separate lines on the same quote. See stump grinding and stump removal.
Grinding or removal: which do I need?
Grinding is enough for lawns and garden beds. Removal is the choice if a slab, pool, driveway or footing is going over the spot.
Will the tree grow back from the stump?
Most eucalypts do not. Camphor laurel, umbrella tree, some palms and bamboo can reshoot from roots. Cut any shoots promptly.
Waste and clean-up
What happens to the branches and logs?
Branches are usually chipped on site. Logs are cut and carted, or left as firewood if you prefer. Palm fronds and bamboo are bulkier and usually carted.
Can I keep the mulch?
Yes. Ask for it to be left in a pile. Fresh mulch from eucalypts and camphor laurel is best composted for a while before using around young plants.
Quotes and costs
Is the quote free?
Yes, and there is no obligation.
How much will it cost?
It depends on the tree, the access and what is included. Guide bands are on the tree removal prices page.
Why do quotes differ?
Usually because they include different things. Compare them line by line.
Storms
When is storm season in south-east Queensland?
Storms are most frequent from spring into early autumn. The storm season checklist covers what to check before summer.
A tree has come down. What do I do first?
Make sure everyone is safe and stay away from fallen power lines. Call 000 if anyone is in danger, Energex on 13 19 62 for power lines, and the SES on 132 500 for storm help. Take photos for your insurer if it is safe, then call us for the clean-up.
About us
Who does the work?
This is a referral website. Work is carried out by independent local contractors. We ask them to hold the licences and insurance the job needs; ask to see them before work starts. More on the about page.