Can I Cut My Neighbour’s Tree Branches in Australia?
- Port Macquarie Arborist
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
A Clear Guide for Homeowners in Port Macquarie
If a neighbour’s tree is hanging over your fence, dropping leaves, or blocking sunlight, it’s a common question:
“Can I legally cut it back?”
The short answer is yes — but with important conditions.
And getting it wrong can lead to disputes, fines, or even legal action.
This guide breaks it down clearly for homeowners in Port Macquarie and across NSW, so you can make the right decision with confidence.
What the Law Says in NSW
In New South Wales, you are generally allowed to:
✔️ Trim branches or roots that cross into your property
✔️ Cut back to your boundary line (but not beyond)
However:
❌ You must not damage or kill the tree
❌ You cannot enter your neighbour’s property without permission
❌ You may still need council approval for certain trees
When It’s NOT So Simple
Many people assume they can just cut anything overhanging — but that’s where problems begin.
1. Protected Trees
Some trees in Port Macquarie are protected under local council regulations.
This means:
Even trimming overhanging branches may require approval
Fines can apply if work is done without permission
2. Risk of Killing the Tree
If your pruning:
Removes too much canopy
Destabilises the structure
Causes long-term decline
👉 You could be liable for damages, even if the branches were on your side.
3. Root Damage Issues
Cutting roots may seem harmless, but it can:
Destabilise the tree
Cause it to fall later
Damage nearby structures
👉 If the tree fails later, responsibility can become complicated.
4. Neighbour Disputes
Tree issues are one of the most common causes of neighbour conflict in Australia.
Even if you’re legally allowed to cut:
Poor communication can escalate tensions
Misunderstanding regulations can backfire
What About Trees Causing Damage?
If a neighbour’s tree is:
Cracking your driveway
Damaging plumbing
Dropping heavy branches
Creating safety risks
You may have grounds to:
Request action from your neighbour
Seek mediation
Apply through the NSW Land and Environment Court (in serious cases)
⚠️ Before You Cut — Ask These 5 Questions
Before taking action, consider:
Is the tree protected under local council rules?
Will cutting affect the tree’s health or stability?
Could this create a safety risk later?
Have I discussed this with my neighbour?
Should I get a professional assessment first?
Before and after clearing (spot our arborist hard at work in the trees)
Why It’s Safer to Engage an Arborist
Tree work is rarely as simple as it looks.
A qualified arborist can:
Assess tree health and risk
Ensure pruning is done correctly
Advise on council requirements
Prevent costly mistakes or liability
At Accomplished Tree Management, we regularly assist homeowners across Port Macquarie with:
Safe and compliant pruning
Tree risk assessments
Council-related advice
Neighbour-related tree concerns
Hazardous tree removal with 60T slewcrane in action.
A Smarter Approach: Resolve It Properly
Instead of risking damage or disputes, the smarter approach is:
✔️ Understand your legal position
✔️ Protect yourself from liability
✔️ Maintain a good relationship with your neighbour
✔️ Ensure the tree remains safe and healthy
Clear communication allows everyone to enjoy unobstructed, beautiful views.
📞 Need Advice or Help?
If you’re unsure what you can or should do, it’s best to get clarity before acting.
Accomplished Tree Management can inspect the tree, explain your options, and carry out any work safely and professionally.
👉 Contact Accomplished Tree Management on T: 65837631
📞 Or call Rhys directly: 0411 443 535
About Accomplished Tree Management: Tel 0411 443 535
Accomplished Tree Management is based in Port Macquarie and services the Mid North Coast. With over 16 years of experience, we employ safe work methods and are certified with Australian AS 4373-2007-Pruning of Amenity Trees standards. We're fully insured with $20 million Public Liability and $5 million Professional Indemnity Insurance. We provide the following tree services -
Tree management - tree removals, palm tree services, council permits
Tree and garden maintenance - hedging, pruning, deadwooding, stump grinding
Tree consultation - arboricultural reports, hazard assessment
This article is written by Vermilion Pinstripes, a sales marketing and communications agency based in Port Macquarie helping businesses thrive with brand confidence.
