Are you thinking of removing a tree from your garden and wondering what to do? If so, here are some tips regarding permits and costs.
Permits
One of the first things you should do is contact your local council or check their website. They'll have specific guidelines that cover tree removal, and you can find out whether you need a permit. Sometimes you may be less likely to be given approval because you live in a specific region or the tree is a protected native species. Or, it may be very ancient or huge. Trees that are native to the area may be protected by the government, even when they sit on private property. Other trees have heritage value.
However, you won't always need a permit, though you should always discuss the situation with your council. A tree may be dead, dangerous, or have already fallen over, for example. If a tree has fallen by itself, take a photo and check with the council, but it will generally be acceptable to have it removed. A dangerous tree can typically be removed. It may be diseased or leaning so that it could topple. You can also often remove trees that are close to your house if you live in a region where bushfires are a threat. Typically, you can clear the area around your house up to a specific distance. Additionally, a small, young tree can often be removed if it's a non-native tree species.
Local arborists will be familiar with the rules, and they may also help you with the permit application if you need one. This process differs depending on the council, but it may require photos and an arborist's report about the tree in question.
Cost
Are you wondering what the cost of removal will be? An arborist can help give you a ballpark figure or a specific quote. In general, though, the cost will depend on the size of the tree and whether a crane, excavator or other heavy machinery is used.
If large and heavy branches hang over your house, the removalist may need ropes and a crane, and the process will be more involved than if the tree is on clear land in the middle of the yard. If the area is cramped or on a steep hill, that can make the process more challenging, which can increase the cost.
Something to consider, however, is that pulling down a tree will often provide lumber. The arborist may bring a machine onto your property that can make some wood chips, or they can cart the wood away so it can be cut into logs and sold and reused. The lumber you get can offset the cost of the job.
The tree removal job will be more elaborate if you want the stump and roots pulled up as well. An alternative is to grind the stump so that it's submerged in the soil.
For more information about tree removal, contact a local company.
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