Northern Beaches Council is warning the community to be wary of unscrupulous tree lopping operators who are again active on the Northern Beaches, flouting the law and making residents liable for thousands of dollars of fines for their illegal work. 

CEO Ray Brownlee said Council is aware of rogue tree tradesmen recently in the Avalon area, offering to cheaply remove or trim large trees without Council permission. This follows a spate of similar incidents early in 2019 and also in 2017.   

“Our community is passionate about trees and at Council we are committed to protecting as much of our tree canopy as possible,” Mr Brownlee said.

“Most trees over 5m high are protected and residents need Council approval to prune more than 10 percent of the tree or remove it. This ensures we maintain the green environment that is so valued by our community. 

“Without consent to prune or remove the trees, residents can attract thousands of dollars in fines. 

“If in doubt, residents should contact Council to ensure they, or those they contract, are working within the law.”

Mr Brownlee said that a good tree operator will be knowledgeable about what is permitted, be appropriately insured and qualified to undertake the work.

“If an operator can’t demonstrate they meet these requirements residents should think twice about employing them to do the job in case they end up being liable for their illegal activities.”

Property owners who are approached by contractors should contact Council first, to check that the work complies with Council’s tree controls or visit our website.

Residents can also contact NSW Department of Fair Trading on 13 32 20.

Media Enquiries: media@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au 9942 2678