Tree Preservation Orders in South Australia

In South Australia, trees are protected under the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016 and the Planning and Design Code. While South Australia does not use the term "Tree Preservation Order" (which is used in some other states), the significant tree provisions achieve a similar purpose \u2014 protecting large, established trees from unnecessary removal.

A tree is classified as a significant tree if its trunk circumference measures 2 metres or more at 1 metre above natural ground level. This equates to approximately 64 centimetres in diameter. Trees meeting this threshold require development approval before they can be removed, destroyed or significantly damaged.

Previously, South Australia also had a "regulated tree" category (trunk circumference of 2m to 3m), but the current Planning and Design Code uses the single "significant tree" threshold of 2m circumference.

To measure your tree, wrap a flexible tape measure around the trunk at exactly 1 metre above the natural ground level on the uphill side. If the circumference is 2 metres or more, the tree is likely significant and protected.

For multi-stemmed trees, measure each stem separately. If any single stem reaches 2m circumference, the entire tree is classified as significant.

1. Measure the trunk. Use a tape measure at 1m above ground. If circumference is 2m+, it is likely significant.
2. Check the species. Some species are exempt from protections (see below). If you are unsure of the species, an arborist can identify it.
3. Check the Planning and Design Code. The PlanSA website (plan.sa.gov.au) has the current list of exempt species and the specific provisions that apply to your property.
4. Contact your council. Your local council planning department can confirm whether a tree is protected and advise on the application process.
5. Commission an arborist report. A qualified arborist can definitively classify the tree and provide the assessment needed for any council application.

Certain tree species are exempt from significant tree protections in South Australia, even if they exceed the 2m circumference threshold. Common exempt species include:

• Most fruit trees grown for commercial or domestic food production
• Declared pest plants under the Landscape South Australia Act
• Trees specifically listed as exempt in the Planning and Design Code
• Trees within a State Heritage Area where alternative protections apply

The full list of exempt species is maintained in the Planning and Design Code on the PlanSA website. If you are unsure whether your tree species is exempt, consult a qualified arborist or your local council.

Removing a significant tree without development approval is a serious offence under the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016. Penalties include:

• Fines: Up to $120,000 for an individual, with higher penalties for body corporates
• Replacement orders: The council may require you to plant replacement trees at your expense
• Remediation orders: In some cases, you may be required to remediate the site
• Development restrictions: Future development applications on the property may be affected

It is never worth the risk. If you think your tree may be significant, check before you remove it. The cost of an arborist report and council application is insignificant compared to the potential penalties.

If you have a legitimate reason to remove a significant tree, you can apply for development approval through your local council. For a detailed step-by-step guide, see our council tree removal guide.

In summary, the process involves:

1. Commission a professional arborist report
2. Lodge a development application through PlanSA or your local council
3. Include the arborist report, site plan and photographs
4. Wait for council assessment (typically 4\u201312 weeks)
5. Receive the decision and comply with any conditions (such as replacement planting)

Applications with strong justification (dead tree, verified structural damage, genuine safety risk) have the best chance of approval. Our arborist finder tool connects you with qualified professionals who can prepare the required reports and guide the process.