Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is an Arborist?

An arborist is a person who specializes in the science and art of management, cultivation, and study of woody plants such as vines, trees, and shrubs. Arborists are specially trained to understand the needs of individual trees and other perennial woody plants. Arborists are normally called to evaluate the health of a tree and recommend proper care and management for that tree, including fertilization, pruning, and pest control.

Q: What is Tree Removal?

Tree removal is the removal of one or more trees, stumps, or other parts of a tree from a residential or non-residential area. Many city councils around Australia regulate the type and species of trees to be removed and council approval is normally required to remove some species of trees.

Q: What is Stump Grinding?

Stump grinding is the grinding down of stumps that have been left after cutting down a tree. It is normally done using a stump grinder and involves grinding down the tree stump into wood dust, which leaves no trace of the tree stump and any surface tree roots.

Q: What is Tree Pruning?

Tree pruning is the removal of stems and branches on a tree for the overall health of the tree. It involves cutting away branches and stems that have been damaged or diseased to prevent accumulation of diseases and pests. In Australia, most fruit trees are pruned just after winter to help produce quality, good-sized fruits and to promote manageable tree sizes.

Q: What is Land Clearing?

Land clearing is the controlled removal of trees, stumps, brush and other types of vegetation and obstacles. Land clearing is normally done to pave the way for construction or to increase the size of available land for farming.

Q: What Qualifications does an Arborist need in Sydney?

In Sydney, Arborists require a minimum of a Diploma (AQF 5) for consultation services and carrying out Arboricultural Impact Statements or Reports. Arborists require a minimum of an AQF 3 to provide any level of tree maintenance services in Sydney and many territories across Australia.

Arborists should also belong to professional bodies such as the National Arborists Association of Australia, which ensures practitioners abide by strict ethical codes when working with trees.

More information regarding council-specific arborist qualifications can be found by following the links below:

Q: Do I need Council Approval to Remove Trees?

Yes. All councils in Sydney require individuals to seek council approval before cutting down or pruning trees. The links below show how you can apply to remove or prune a tree in selected councils within Sydney.

Q: How Much Does Tree Removal Cost?

The costs for removing a tree can vary widely depending on the location and size of the tree, safety precautions, accessibility of the tree, and additional services such as stump removal. That said, tree removal can cost anywhere between $800 and $6,000 per tree, including the mandatory Arboricultural Impact Report from a certified arborist.

If you would like to ask another question visit protreeremovalsydney.com.au and complete our online contact form or phone us direct.