Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What tree services do you offer in Sydney?

Accepted Answer

Sydney Tree Services provides a comprehensive range of professional arboricultural services throughout Sydney including:

• Complete tree removal and stump grinding
• Tree pruning and trimming to Australian Standards
• Tree lopping and crown reduction
• Land clearing for residential and commercial sites
• 24/7 emergency tree services
• Arborist reports and consulting
• Tree health assessments and treatment
• Regular tree maintenance programs

Our team of AQF Level 5 qualified arborists services all Sydney suburbs with over 30 years of experience.

Question 2

What's the difference between tree pruning, trimming and lopping?

Accepted Answer

While often used interchangeably, these terms describe different approaches to tree maintenance:

• Tree Pruning: A professional, scientific approach that involves selectively removing specific branches according to Australian Standards (AS4373). Proper pruning maintains tree health, structure and aesthetics while promoting long-term vitality. This is our recommended approach.

• Tree Trimming: Generally refers to minor cutting for appearance and clearance, often focusing on shaping and maintaining form rather than addressing structural issues.

• Tree Lopping: Involves cutting branches between nodes, which can stress trees and lead to decay, excessive regrowth, and potential hazards. Modern arboriculture generally discourages traditional lopping in favour of proper pruning techniques.

At Sydney Tree Services, our arborists follow Australian Standards for tree pruning, ensuring techniques that maintain tree health while achieving your objectives for clearance, safety, or aesthetics.

Question 3

What is involved in professional stump grinding?

Accepted Answer

Professional stump grinding involves removing the remaining tree stump after tree removal using specialised machinery. Our stump grinding process includes:

• Assessment of the stump and surrounding area
• Use of commercial-grade stump grinders that can reduce stumps up to 30cm below ground level
• Grinding of both the stump and visible surface roots
• Collection and removal of wood chips and debris (or leaving mulch on-site if desired)
• Filling the resulting hole with soil to ground level

Stump grinding is recommended after tree removal as it eliminates trip hazards, prevents regrowth, helps prevent pest infestation, and allows for replanting or repurposing of the area.

Question 4

Which trees are most problematic or invasive in Sydney?

Accepted Answer

Several tree species are considered problematic or invasive in Sydney due to their aggressive growth, structural issues, or environmental impacts:

• Camphor Laurel (Cinnamomum camphora) - Invasive in bushland areas, displaces native vegetation, extensive surface roots can damage paving

• Cocos Palm (Syagrus romanzoffiana) - Fast-growing palm with heavy fronds, messy fruiting, and short lifespan

• Privet species (Ligustrum lucidum, L. sinense) - Highly invasive in bushland, berries spread by birds

• Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica) - Aggressive root systems that damage infrastructure

• Umbrella Tree (Schefflera actinophylla) - Invasive in bushland areas, can damage buildings with roots

• Coral Tree (Erythrina x sykesii) - Brittle wood prone to branch failure, invasive roots

• Willow species (Salix spp.) - Invasive along waterways, high water usage

• African Olive (Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata) - Highly invasive in bushland

• Box Elder (Acer negundo) - Fast-spreading weed tree in natural areas

• Radiata Pine (Pinus radiata) - Invasive in some areas, prone to failure in urban settings

Many of these species are exempt from protection under most Sydney council regulations, making removal generally easier. If you're concerned about a potentially problematic tree on your property, we can assess its condition, risk profile, and recommend appropriate management options.

Question 5

How long does a typical tree removal take?

Accepted Answer

The time required for tree removal in Sydney varies considerably depending on several factors:

• Small trees (under 5m): Generally 2-4 hours
• Medium trees (5-10m): Usually 4-6 hours
• Large trees (10-20m): Typically 6-8 hours or a full day
• Very large trees (20m+): May require 1-2 full days

Factors that can extend this timeframe include:
• Limited access to the property or tree location
• Proximity to structures, power lines, or other obstacles
• Complex rigging requirements for confined spaces
• Weather conditions (we prioritise safety in adverse weather)
• Whether stump grinding is included (typically adds 1-2 hours)

During your free quote, our arborists will provide a more accurate timeline based on your specific tree and property conditions.

Question 6

Do you provide arborist reports for council applications?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Sydney Tree Services provides comprehensive arborist reports that comply with all Sydney council requirements. Our AQF Level 5 qualified arborists are authorised to prepare formal reports for:

• Development Applications (DAs)
• Complying Development Certificates (CDCs)
• Tree Removal Permit Applications
• Tree Preservation Order (TPO) exemption requests
• Tree Risk Assessments
• Pre-purchase property inspections
• Root investigation reports
• Tree monitoring programs

Our reports follow Australian Standard AS4970-2009 (Protection of Trees on Development Sites) and include detailed assessments of tree health, structural condition, significance, and recommendations based on arboricultural best practices. These professionally prepared reports significantly increase the likelihood of council approval for tree work.

Question 7

Do I need council approval to remove a tree in Sydney?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes. Sydney councils regulate tree removal through Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) or Development Control Plans (DCPs). Generally, you'll need approval to remove or significantly prune a tree if it:

• Is taller than 3-5 metres (varies by council)
• Has a trunk diameter greater than 30-40cm measured at 1.4m above ground
• Is a protected or significant species
• Is in a heritage conservation area

However, exemptions may apply for certain species (typically invasive species), dead or dangerous trees, or trees within a specific distance of buildings.

Sydney Tree Services can help determine if you need approval and handle the entire application process for you, including providing the required arborist reports and documentation specific to your local council.

Question 8

How long does the council approval process take?

Accepted Answer

The approval timeframe for tree works varies across Sydney councils:

• Standard tree removal permits: Typically 2-4 weeks
• Complex cases or protected trees: 4-8 weeks
• Development applications involving multiple trees: 6-12 weeks

Factors affecting processing time include:
• Your specific local council (processing times vary significantly)
• Current application volumes and council resourcing
• Completeness of your application
• Whether a council tree officer needs to conduct a site inspection
• If objections are received from neighbours

Our team stays updated on current processing times for all Sydney councils and can advise on the likely timeframe for your specific situation. For urgent situations involving hazardous trees, most councils offer expedited assessment processes.

Question 9

What happens if I remove a tree without council approval?

Accepted Answer

Removing a protected tree without council approval in Sydney can result in significant penalties:

• Fines typically range from $3,000 to $110,000 depending on the severity and council jurisdiction
• For significant trees or multiple trees, fines can exceed $1 million under the NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act
• Court-ordered remediation, including planting and maintaining replacement trees
• In extreme cases, criminal prosecution with potential imprisonment

Councils actively investigate unauthorised tree removals, and neighbours often report suspicious activity. Even if a tree appears dead or dangerous, proper procedures must be followed.

Sydney Tree Services strongly recommends obtaining all necessary approvals before any tree work. Our experts can guide you through the process and provide emergency assessments when trees pose an immediate hazard.

Question 10

Which trees are exempt from council approval in Sydney?

Accepted Answer

While regulations vary across Sydney's councils, these tree types are commonly exempt from requiring approval:

• Trees below specified size thresholds (typically under 3-5m tall or trunk diameter less than 30cm)
• Recognised pest species (like Camphor Laurel, Privet, Rubber Trees, and Cocos Palms in many areas)
• Dead trees (though photographic evidence is recommended before removal)
• Trees posing immediate danger (documentation required)
• Trees within a specified distance from approved dwellings (typically 3-5m)
• Certain fruit trees (excluding native species)

Specific exemptions vary significantly between councils. For example, Inner West has different exemptions than Northern Beaches or Sutherland Shire. Our arborists keep updated on all local council regulations and can quickly determine if your tree is exempt or requires formal approval.

Question 11

How much does tree removal cost in Sydney?

Accepted Answer

Tree removal costs in Sydney vary based on several factors. Here's a general pricing guide:

• Small trees (up to 5m): $350-$900
• Medium trees (5-10m): $800-$2,500
• Large trees (10-15m): $1,800-$4,000
• Very large trees (15m+): $3,000-$5,500+

Key factors affecting cost include:
• Tree height, diameter, and species (hardwoods cost more than softwoods)
• Access difficulty (limited access increases cost significantly)
• Proximity to structures, power lines, or other obstacles
• Whether you need stump grinding (typically adds $150-$500)
• Council permit requirements (if applicable)
• Location within Sydney (prices vary by region)

We provide free, no-obligation quotes that account for all these factors. Our pricing is transparent with no hidden costs, and we offer a best-price guarantee for comparable professional service.

Question 12

Do you offer free quotes?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Sydney Tree Services offers completely free, no-obligation quotes for all tree services throughout the Sydney metropolitan area. Our quoting process includes:

• On-site assessment by a qualified arborist (not a salesperson)
• Detailed evaluation of the tree's condition, size, location and access issues
• Discussion of your specific requirements and preferences
• Explanation of the recommended approach and techniques
• Clear, itemised written quote with all costs fully disclosed
• Information about any necessary council approvals
• Estimate of job timeframe and scheduling options

We pride ourselves on transparent pricing with no hidden charges or surprises. To arrange your free quote, call us on 0414 923 269 or complete our online quote request form.

Question 13

What factors affect the cost of tree pruning?

Accepted Answer

Tree pruning costs in Sydney are influenced by several key factors:

• Tree size and height (taller trees generally cost more)
• Tree species and wood density (hardwoods like eucalypts require more labour)
• Pruning type required (crown thinning, reduction, lifting, deadwooding, etc.)
• Extent of pruning needed (percentage of canopy to be removed)
• Access conditions (restricted access increases time and equipment needed)
• Tree's proximity to structures, utilities, or sensitive plantings
• Whether specialised equipment like cherry pickers is required
• Debris removal requirements (included in our standard service)

For a medium-sized tree, standard pruning typically ranges from $350-$900. Major pruning of large trees can range from $800-$2,500 depending on complexity. All our pruning work adheres to Australian Standard AS4373 (Pruning of Amenity Trees) to ensure tree health and longevity.

Question 14

Do you offer any discounts or payment plans?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Sydney Tree Services offers several ways to make professional tree care more affordable:

• Multi-service discounts: Save 10-15% when booking multiple services together (e.g., tree removal plus stump grinding, or multiple tree work)
• Pensioner discounts: 10% discount for senior card holders and pensioners
• Neighbour referral program: Discounts when neighbours coordinate tree work together
• Seasonal promotions: We offer special rates during quieter periods (typically winter months)
• Payment plans: Interest-free payment options are available for larger jobs through our partnership with Zip Pay

We also price match any comparable written quote from a qualified, insured arborist. All our work comes with comprehensive insurance coverage and our satisfaction guarantee, ensuring you receive the best value for professional tree care.

Question 15

Are you fully insured for tree work?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Sydney Tree Services maintains comprehensive insurance coverage that exceeds industry standards:

• Public Liability Insurance: $20 million coverage (certificate available upon request)
• Worker's Compensation Insurance: Full coverage for all our team members
• Professional Indemnity Insurance: $5 million coverage for consulting and arborist reports
• Property Damage Insurance: Complete coverage for any unlikely incidents

Our insurance certifications are available for verification prior to commencing any work. This comprehensive coverage protects your property and provides peace of mind that you're working with a professional, responsible company. We also maintain strict safety protocols that typically exceed minimum requirements, significantly reducing the likelihood of any incidents.

Question 16

What safety measures do you follow during tree work?

Accepted Answer

Safety is our absolute priority on every job. Our comprehensive safety protocols include:

• Pre-job risk assessments for every site
• Temporary exclusion zones around work areas
• Traffic management when working near roadways
• Regular equipment maintenance and safety checks
• Comprehensive personal protective equipment (PPE) for all team members
• Clear communication procedures between ground crew and climbers
• Weather monitoring and job postponement in unsafe conditions
• Compliance with WorkSafe NSW guidelines and Australian Standards
• Regular safety training and certification updates
• Dedicated safety supervisor on larger jobs

All our arborists hold current safety certifications including Working at Heights, ChainSaw Operation, and First Aid. We're proud of our exceptional safety record and commitment to protecting our team, your property, and the public during all tree operations.

Question 17

How do you protect my property during tree work?

Accepted Answer

Protecting your property is a core part of our service approach. We implement multiple protective measures including:

• Comprehensive pre-work assessment to identify all potential risks
• Use of advanced rigging techniques to control branch and trunk lowering
• Protective mats for lawns and garden beds when using heavy equipment
• Branch walking and sectional dismantling techniques in confined spaces
• Protection boards for adjacent structures where necessary
• Careful debris management to prevent damage during removal
• Specialised equipment selection based on access constraints
• Clear communication with property owners about protection strategies

In the extremely rare event of any property damage, our $20 million public liability insurance provides complete coverage and peace of mind. Our careful approach and experienced team mean property damage is exceptionally rare, which is reflected in our outstanding customer reviews throughout Sydney.

Question 18

What happens if there's bad weather on the day of my scheduled tree work?

Accepted Answer

Safety is our priority, so we sometimes need to reschedule due to adverse weather. Our weather policy includes:

• Monitoring forecasts before your scheduled date
• Proactive communication if rescheduling seems likely
• Full cancellation for severe weather (heavy rain, strong winds, storms, extreme heat)
• Partial work completion when possible, with remaining work rescheduled
• Priority rebooking once conditions improve
• No cancellation fees for weather-related postponements

Certain weather conditions create significant safety hazards for tree work: wet trees are slippery, winds complicate directional felling, and lightning poses obvious risks. During extreme heat (typically above 38°C), we may start earlier or reschedule to ensure crew safety and optimal work quality.

We appreciate your understanding when weather-related rescheduling is necessary for everyone's safety.

Question 19

Do you remove all debris after tree work?

Accepted Answer

Yes, complete cleanup is included as standard with all our tree services. Our comprehensive debris management includes:

• Removal of all branches, logs, and foliage from the work area
• Raking and blowing of small debris from lawns and garden beds
• Cleanup of sawdust from hard surfaces using blowers and brooms
• Stacking of firewood in a convenient location if requested
• Optional mulch creation from suitable material if desired
• Green waste recycling of all removed vegetation

We pride ourselves on leaving your property cleaner than we found it. Our crews are equipped with tarps, rakes, blowers, and other cleanup tools to ensure a thorough job. For larger jobs spanning multiple days, we perform daily cleanup rather than waiting until the entire project is complete.

Question 20

What should I do after tree removal to prevent regrowth?

Accepted Answer

To prevent unwanted regrowth after tree removal, we recommend these steps:

• Stump grinding is essential for most species (included in our comprehensive removal packages)
• Application of herbicide to freshly cut stumps for species prone to suckering (we can advise on specific cases)
• Regular monitoring for any sucker growth from remaining roots and prompt removal
• Covering the area with mulch or landscaping fabric if replanting isn't immediate
• Introducing competing plants once the stump is removed
• Proper soil preparation before replanting to address any soil compaction

Different tree species have varying regrowth tendencies - some like eucalypts and poplar are particularly persistent. Our arborists can provide species-specific advice during your tree removal service. For complete elimination of regrowth potential, we recommend our complete removal package which includes stump grinding to approximately 30cm below ground level.

Question 21

When is the best time to plant a new tree after removal?

Accepted Answer

The optimal timing for planting a new tree after removal depends on several factors:

• Immediate planting is possible if the stump and major roots have been completely removed and the soil properly prepared
• For standard stump grinding (30cm below ground), we recommend waiting 3-6 months to allow remaining roots to begin decomposing
• Plant during the ideal season for your chosen species (typically autumn or early spring in Sydney)
• Consider soil testing before replanting, especially if the previous tree suffered from disease
• Allow longer waiting periods (6-12 months) for trees removed due to soil-borne diseases

When selecting a replacement tree, consider choosing a different species to avoid any pest or disease issues that may have affected the previous tree. Our arborists can provide recommendations for suitable native or ornamental species that will thrive in your specific location while addressing your preferences for size, shade, and aesthetics.

Question 22

How can I maintain the health of my remaining trees?

Accepted Answer

To maintain the health of your remaining trees after removal or pruning work, we recommend these best practices:

• Maintain a consistent watering schedule, especially during Sydney's dry periods and for trees affected by root zone disturbance
• Apply a layer of organic mulch around trees (keeping it 10cm away from the trunk) to improve soil moisture and reduce competition from grass
• Avoid soil compaction in the root zone by limiting heavy foot traffic or equipment
• Monitor for any signs of stress, pest infestation, or disease following nearby tree work
• Consider a slow-release fertiliser application if recommended by our arborists
• Schedule regular professional inspections (every 2-3 years) to catch potential issues early
• Follow proper pruning schedules based on species (most trees benefit from pruning every 3-5 years)

We offer ongoing tree health management programs that include scheduled assessments, preventative treatments, and maintenance pruning to ensure your valuable trees remain healthy for decades to come.

Question 23

How long has Sydney Tree Services been operating?

Accepted Answer

Sydney Tree Services has been operating continuously since 1995, providing professional arboricultural services throughout the Sydney metropolitan area for over 30 years. Our long-standing presence in the industry has allowed us to:

• Develop deep expertise in local tree species and conditions
• Build strong relationships with council arborists across all Sydney LGAs
• Refine our techniques and invest in advanced equipment
• Establish a loyal customer base with exceptional retention
• Train and maintain a team of highly skilled arborists

As a locally owned and operated business, we've proudly contributed to Sydney's urban forest management for three decades, helping to maintain the leafy character of our suburbs while addressing the practical needs of property owners.

Question 24

What qualifications do your arborists have?

Accepted Answer

Our arborists hold extensive qualifications and certifications to ensure the highest standard of tree care:

• AQF Level 5 Diploma of Arboriculture (exceeding industry standard requirements)
• AQF Level 3 Certificate in Arboriculture (minimum qualification for all team members)
• Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) for comprehensive hazard evaluations
• Elevated Work Platform (EWP) licences
• ChainSaw Operation Certification
• Working at Heights Certification
• First Aid Certification
• Traffic Control Certification where required

Our team also maintains membership in professional organisations including Arboriculture Australia and the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), requiring ongoing professional development and adherence to industry best practices. All our practices comply with Australian Standards AS4373-2007 (Pruning of Amenity Trees) and AS4970-2009 (Protection of Trees on Development Sites).

Question 25

What areas of Sydney do you service?

Accepted Answer

Sydney Tree Services operates throughout the entire Sydney metropolitan region, including:

• Eastern Suburbs (Bondi, Randwick, Maroubra, etc.)
• Inner West (Newtown, Marrickville, Leichhardt, etc.)
• North Shore (Chatswood, Mosman, Lane Cove, etc.)
• Northern Beaches (Manly, Dee Why, Mona Vale, etc.)
• Hills District (Castle Hill, Baulkham Hills, Kellyville, etc.)
• Western Sydney (Parramatta, Blacktown, Penrith, etc.)
• South West (Liverpool, Campbelltown, Camden, etc.)
• St George (Hurstville, Kogarah, Rockdale, etc.)
• Sutherland Shire (Cronulla, Miranda, Caringbah, etc.)

We maintain multiple crews operating across these regions to ensure prompt service regardless of your location. For larger projects or commercial contracts, we also service the broader Sydney Basin including the Central Coast, Blue Mountains, and Wollongong regions.

Question 26

How quickly can you respond to emergency tree situations?

Accepted Answer

Sydney Tree Services maintains dedicated emergency response teams that can be dispatched rapidly for urgent tree situations:

• 24/7 emergency hotline available 365 days a year
• Response within 1-3 hours for critical situations (fallen trees, storm damage)
• Same-day assessment for urgent but non-immediate threats
• Priority scheduling for hazardous trees requiring prompt attention
• After-hours and weekend service without excessive surcharges
• Direct coordination with emergency services where required
• Immediate temporary safety measures when full resolution requires more time

Our emergency services include storm damage mitigation, removal of fallen trees from structures, securing partially fallen trees, and addressing trees posing imminent hazards. Our experienced team is equipped with specialised equipment for emergency scenarios, and we maintain relationships with crane operators and other specialists for complex emergency situations.