There are several situations where a permit may be required to remove a tree:

1. in a location subject to planning restrictions or an overlay.
2. of particular size, planting condition or significance and a qualified arborist is not doing the work.

Situation 1: Planning restrictions

Sandringham contains multiple areas protected by the Vegetation Protection Overlay Schedule 1 (VPO1), Schedule 2 (VPO2) and Schedule 3 (VPO3), which aim to protect areas of significant vegetation.

VPO1 is found along the foreshore in Sandringham, and it aims to retain, protect, and enhance vegetation in coastal areas. Remnant vegetation along the foreshore is of ecological importance. VPO1 is in place to retain, protect and enhance this vegetation from threats of environmental challenges, development, vandalism, and illegal tree removals.

VPO2 applies specifically to bushland reserves that are discontinuous, landlocked and surrounded by either residential or industrial development, aiming to maintain the quality of the remaining fauna habitat and to create additional habitat in bushland areas. Permits are required to remove, destroy, or lop any native vegetation in areas that are covered by the VPO2.

A small section of Sandringham, south of Edward Street and west of Bluff Road is covered by the VPO3 which aims to retain the amenity, aesthetic character, and habitat value of vegetation within the area. Aside from the protection of indigenous vegetation, it also seeks to promote the regeneration and planting of vegetation in Sandringham. Permits are required to remove, destroy, or lop any vegetation that is native to Australia in areas that are covered by the VPO3.

For larger developments or where redevelopment proposals are being assessed and require planning approval, Council officers can also request a landscaping plan which should be prepared to take into consideration the Bayside Landscaping Guidelines.

Trees or vegetation may be protected by a planning permit if you live in, or own, a flat, unit, apartment, dual occupancy, or if the property is under 500m². To find out whether trees or vegetation on your property is protected by a heritage overlay or a significant landscape overlay, view the planning map.

Situation 2: Local Law

A Local Law permit is required if the tree to be removed:

• has a single or combined trunk circumference greater than 155cm measured at 1m above ground level. If the tree has several trunks, the four largest trunk circumferences should be added together; or
• is planted in accordance with the replacement planting condition of a Local Law permit; or
• is listed on our Significant Tree Register.