Tree Permits

How to apply

All applications for a Tree Permit must be submitted on a Tree Permit application form:

Download Tree Permit Application(PDF, 266KB) 

The form must be filled out correctly and contain all the necessary information to allow the City of Ryde to assess the application. It must be signed and accompanied by the appropriate fee, in line with the Schedule of Fees and Charges.

View the fees and charges

Council will not begin processing the application without signatures from all the tree owners and payment of the correct fee.

Supporting documentation

The City of Ryde may require supporting documentation to help in its assessment process.

It is not mandatory to provide extra documentation with all Tree Permit applications. However, you are responsible for providing the appropriate documents to substantiate your reasons for carrying out tree works. This enables Council’s Urban Forest Team to make a well-informed decision.

The type of supporting documents and the level of detail required depends on how much work you wish to carry out and your reasons for doing it. In some cases, it is necessary to submit supporting information at the time of your application:

• You must provide an arboricultural report if you wish to remove a tree because it is dangerous or poses a risk to human life or property.
• You must provide an arboricultural report if you wish to remove a tree listed in the City of Ryde Significant Tree Register. 
• You must provide a structural engineer’s report if you wish to remove a tree or prune roots because of damage to a structure (eg a home, garage, carport or shed). Include evidence (such as photos) of the specific damage caused by the tree to the relevant structure and a discussion of alternatives considered to avoid the proposed works to the tree. 
• You must provide a plumber’s report if you wish to remove a tree or prune roots because of damage to services (eg drainage, sewer lines or water pipes). Include evidence (such as photos) of the damage caused by the tree and a discussion of alternatives you have considered to avoid the proposed works.

You may provide supporting documentation with your application in other cases, but it is not essential. Please note that you are responsible for the cost of providing any supporting documentation.

Assessment Process

The City of Ryde’s Urban Forest Team assesses all Tree Permit applications. See details on the assessment process for Tree Permits.