Fig Tree Removal Sydney: Regulations, Costs & Expert Tips

Fig Trees in Sydney: An Overview

Fig trees are iconic elements of Sydney's urban landscape. From the majestic Moreton Bay Figs in parks to the sculptural Port Jackson Figs clinging to sandstone, these trees define our city's character. But when they grow on private property, they can present significant challenges.

If you're considering fig tree removal, understanding the regulations, costs, and complexities involved is essential.

Common Fig Species in Sydney

Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla)

• Size: Can reach 60m tall with massive canopy spread
• Root system: Extensive buttress roots and surface roots
• Fruit: Large purple figs that attract birds and bats
• Protection status: Almost always protected; often heritage-listed

Port Jackson Fig (Ficus rubiginosa)

• Size: 15-30m tall, often with spreading canopy
• Root system: Aggressive roots, often starts as strangler
• Fruit: Small yellow figs turning red
• Protection status: Usually protected under TPOs

Hill's Weeping Fig (Ficus microcarpa var. hillii)

• Size: 15-25m tall with weeping canopy
• Root system: Can produce aerial roots in humid conditions
• Common use: Popular street and park tree
• Protection status: Check with your local council

Rubber Fig (Ficus elastica)

• Size: Can reach 30m in Sydney conditions
• Root system: Large buttress and surface roots
• Protection status: Often exempt as an environmental weed

Why Fig Trees Become Problematic

Extensive Root Systems

Fig tree roots are notorious for:

• Damaging foundations, retaining walls, and fences
• Cracking driveways, paths, and pool surrounds
• Blocking sewer and stormwater pipes
• Uplifting pavers and creating trip hazards
• Spreading well beyond the canopy drip line

Size and Scale

Figs planted in residential gardens often outgrow their space dramatically:

• Canopies can exceed 25m diameter
• They shade out other plants entirely
• Branches can overhang neighbours and roadways
• They dominate small to medium gardens

Maintenance Issues

• Heavy fruit drop attracting bats, birds, and insects
• Leaf drop creating constant debris
• Sticky latex sap that damages cars and outdoor furniture
• Dense shade preventing lawn growth

Fig Tree Removal Costs

Fig tree removal is generally more expensive than standard tree removal due to size, complexity, and root management:

Factors Affecting Cost

• Access: Limited access significantly increases costs
• Proximity to structures: Trees near buildings require more careful dismantling
• Root management: Extensive root systems may need grinding or barriers
• Crane requirements: Large figs often require crane assistance
• Waste disposal: Fig waste is heavy and voluminous

Fig Tree Removal Regulations

Fig trees face some of the strictest protection in Sydney:

Standard TPO Protection

Like other trees, figs meeting size thresholds require council approval. However, councils often apply additional scrutiny to fig removal applications due to their:

• Landscape significance
• Wildlife habitat value
• Cultural and historical associations
• Longevity and replacement difficulty

Heritage Listing

Many significant fig trees are individually heritage-listed, which means:

• Removal is extremely difficult to approve
• Even pruning may require heritage assessment
• Penalties for damage are more severe
• Alternative solutions (transplanting, root barriers) are strongly preferred

Check our Tree Preservation Orders guide for detailed information on council requirements.

Approval Success Factors

Fig tree removal applications are more likely to succeed when demonstrating:

• Significant structural damage that cannot be remediated
• Ongoing damage despite root barrier installation
• Safety hazards supported by arborist assessment
• Incompatibility with approved development (with mitigation measures explored)

Alternatives to Removal

Before pursuing removal, councils often require exploration of alternatives:

Root Barriers

Physical barriers installed between the tree and structures can redirect root growth:

• Cost: $100-$200 per linear metre installed
• Depth: Typically 600mm-1m
• Effectiveness: Can work well if installed correctly
• Limitation: Doesn't address existing root damage

Root Pruning

Cutting roots on one side of the tree may reduce damage:

• Risk of destabilising the tree
• Requires arborist assessment
• May need council approval for protected trees
• Roots often regrow

Crown Reduction

Reducing the canopy can slow root growth:

• Must be done correctly (no lopping or topping)
• Limits of 10-15% per year typically
• Ongoing commitment required
• Doesn't eliminate root issues

Transplanting

For heritage or significant figs, transplanting may be considered:

• Extremely expensive ($50,000-$200,000+)
• Limited success rates for large specimens
• Requires significant forward planning
• Usually only for trees of exceptional value

Stump and Root Treatment

Fig stumps are notoriously difficult to kill:

• Regrowth: Figs readily reshoot from stumps and roots
• Stump grinding: Essential—grind below soil level
• Root treatment: May require herbicide application to prevent suckering
• Ongoing monitoring: Watch for regrowth for 1-2 years

Professional stump grinding and treatment is strongly recommended.

Choosing an Arborist for Fig Removal

Fig tree removal requires specialist expertise:

• Experience with figs: Ask specifically about fig tree work
• Appropriate equipment: Cranes, EWPs, large capacity chippers
• Insurance: Ensure $20M+ public liability for large tree work
• Qualifications: AQF Level 5 for complex removals and reports
• Council experience: Familiar with your local council's requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I remove a fig tree without council approval?

Almost certainly not, unless it's below your council's size thresholds (rare for established figs) or is an exempt species like Rubber Fig. Unauthorised removal of a significant fig can attract fines exceeding $100,000.

How long does fig tree removal take?

Small figs may take half a day. Large figs can take 2-3 days or more, especially if crane access is required or the site is constrained.

Will removing a fig damage my sewer pipes?

The tree's roots may already be inside pipes. Removal and stump grinding can disturb these roots, so have a plumber inspect pipes before and after removal. Budget for potential pipe repairs.

Can fig roots damage foundations?

Absolutely. Fig roots can exploit any crack or gap, and large figs exert significant pressure. Damage to foundations is one of the stronger cases for removal approval.

What about the fruit and mess?

Fruit drop alone is rarely sufficient grounds for removal approval. You may have better success arguing for regular pruning to reduce fruit production.