Council Tree Removal Guide: Getting Approval in Adelaide

In South Australia, the key threshold is trunk circumference. Under the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016, a tree is classified as a significant tree if its trunk circumference measures 2 metres or more at 1 metre above natural ground level (approximately 64cm diameter).

If your tree meets this threshold, you must obtain development approval from your local council before removing it. Removing a significant tree without approval is an offence that can result in fines of up to $120,000.

Some tree species are exempt from significant tree protections, including most fruit trees, some declared pest plants, and trees specifically listed in the Planning and Design Code. Check the tree preservation orders guide for a full list of exemptions.

To determine if your tree is significant, measure the trunk circumference (the distance around the trunk) at exactly 1 metre above natural ground level. Use a flexible tape measure wrapped around the trunk.

• Single trunk: Measure circumference at 1m above ground level.
• Multi-stemmed tree: Measure each stem separately. If any individual stem is 2m+ circumference, the tree is significant.
• Tree on a slope: Measure from the uphill side at 1m above ground.

If you are unsure, a qualified arborist can accurately measure and classify your tree as part of a professional assessment.

The application process for significant tree removal in Adelaide follows these general steps:

1. Commission an arborist report. Engage a qualified arborist (minimum Certificate III in Arboriculture) to assess the tree and prepare a formal arborist report. The report should document the tree species, size, health condition, structural integrity, and the reason for removal.
2. Lodge a development application. Submit an application through the PlanSA online portal or directly with your local council. Include the arborist report, site plan showing the tree location, and photographs.
3. Public notification (if required). Some applications require notification of adjoining property owners. The council will advise if this applies to your application.
4. Council assessment. A council planning officer or arborist will assess the application against the relevant provisions of the Planning and Design Code.
5. Decision. You will receive a decision to approve (sometimes with conditions such as replacement planting), refuse, or request additional information.

When assessing a significant tree removal application, councils consider:

• The tree's health and structural condition (is it dead, dying or hazardous?)
• Whether the tree is causing or is likely to cause damage to buildings or infrastructure
• The tree's contribution to the local character, streetscape and amenity
• Whether there are reasonable alternatives to removal (such as pruning, root barriers, or engineering solutions)
• The impact of removal on neighbouring properties and the broader environment
• Whether replacement planting can adequately compensate for the loss

Applications with strong justification supported by a thorough arborist report have the best chance of approval. Common successful reasons include dead or dying trees, trees with significant structural defects, and trees causing verified structural damage to buildings.

Each Adelaide council manages its own development applications for tree removal. Contact your local council planning department for specific requirements and application forms. You can also lodge applications through the PlanSA online portal (plan.sa.gov.au).

Not sure which council area you are in? Use our area pages to find your council, or check the LGA SA (Local Government Association of SA) website.