Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Wondering whether you can remove a tree on your Redlands property? It's the question we get asked most. Below are plain-English answers to the things people ask us all the time.
A quick note before you read on: this is general information, not formal advice, and the rules can change. Always confirm with Redland City Council before any tree comes down, because every block is different and overlays can change what's allowed. If you'd rather just ask a person, call Cam on 0403 814 973 - we deal with these rules every week.
Do I need council approval to remove a tree in the Redlands?
Sometimes. It depends on the tree, where it is on your block, and whether it's protected. As a general rule, trees close to your house are often exempt, while trees covered by a Vegetation Protection Order, Local Law No. 6, or an environmental overlay usually need approval. The only way to be sure is to confirm with Redland City Council for your specific property.
When can I remove a tree WITHOUT council approval?
You can generally remove a tree on your own property without approval if it's:
- within 10 metres of your house (a dwelling);- within 3 metres of an approved structure, like a shed or pool; or- within 3 metres of a boundary, where it's needed to build or maintain a fence or firebreak.
You may also be able to remove a tree that's a declared pest, a genuine safety risk confirmed by a qualified arborist, or interfering with utility infrastructure. These exemptions don't apply to every tree though - so confirm with council first.
- within 10 metres of your house (a dwelling);- within 3 metres of an approved structure, like a shed or pool; or- within 3 metres of a boundary, where it's needed to build or maintain a fence or firebreak.
You may also be able to remove a tree that's a declared pest, a genuine safety risk confirmed by a qualified arborist, or interfering with utility infrastructure. These exemptions don't apply to every tree though - so confirm with council first.
When do I need council approval?
You'll likely need approval if the tree is:
- covered by a Vegetation Protection Order (VPO);- protected under the council's Local Law No. 6 (Protection of Vegetation); or- in an area with an environmental or vegetation overlay in the Redland City Plan.
It can also apply if the tree is tied to a covenant or a development approval condition. In these cases you may need a permit, and sometimes a site inspection, before any work starts.
- covered by a Vegetation Protection Order (VPO);- protected under the council's Local Law No. 6 (Protection of Vegetation); or- in an area with an environmental or vegetation overlay in the Redland City Plan.
It can also apply if the tree is tied to a covenant or a development approval condition. In these cases you may need a permit, and sometimes a site inspection, before any work starts.
What is a Vegetation Protection Order (VPO)?
A Vegetation Protection Order is a local-law tool councils use to protect specific trees or areas of vegetation that have environmental, cultural or aesthetic value. If a tree is covered by a VPO, you generally can't remove or even prune it without Redland City Council approval - even if it's close to your house.
What is Local Law No. 6?
Local Law No. 6 (Protection of Vegetation) is Redland City Council's main local law covering the removal and damage of protected vegetation on private land. If your tree is protected under it, you'll usually need a permit before you can remove or prune it.
Can I remove a tree that's close to my house?
In most cases, yes - a tree within 10 metres of your dwelling can generally be removed without approval. But this exemption doesn't override a VPO, an overlay or a covenant, so a protected tree near your house may still need approval. Confirm with Redland City Council before going ahead.
Can I remove a dead or dangerous tree without approval?
Often, yes - a tree that's genuinely dead or an immediate safety risk may be exempt, but council generally expects the danger to be confirmed by a qualified arborist. Don't assume: get it assessed and confirm with council, especially if the tree is otherwise protected.
Do I need approval to just prune or lop a tree?
You can usually do light, sensible pruning on an unprotected tree. But if the tree is covered by a VPO, Local Law No. 6 or an overlay, pruning can need approval too - not just full removal. If you're unsure whether your tree is protected, check before you cut.
Can The Green Tree Gorilla help with all this?
Yes. We deal with Redland City Council's vegetation rules every week. When we quote your job, we'll tell you straight whether your tree is likely exempt or protected, and if you do need approval, we'll point you in the right direction. Then we'll do the work safely, fully insured, and clean up after.
Always confirm with Redland City Council directly before removing any tree. This page is general information, not formal advice.