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Certain tree removal activities may require a permit in bushfire zones, particularly when they fall outside exempted clearing work categories. It’s crucial to understand local regulations and specific exemptions that apply to your area. Local councils, like Brisbane City Council or Gold Coast City Council, often have specific laws governing tree removal.
Exemptions from needing a permit for clearing work include creating firebreaks and fire management lines and clearing necessary for maintaining existing infrastructure. Exemptions apply within specified limits on lands such as freehold, Indigenous, or leasehold for agriculture. For instance, a fire management line can be cleared to a maximum width of 10m.
To get development approval for land clearing beyond exempted work, landholders can apply under the Planning Regulation 2017. The application will be assessed based on its impact on native vegetation and other factors like koala habitat. For further guidance and to apply for development approval, visit the Development Application Portal.
Yes, a bush fire management plan is recommended, especially if you’re in a bush fire hazard area. This plan identifies firebreaks, justifies vegetation clearing, and explores alternative risk-reduction strategies. Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) can provide expert advice for preparing these plans.
For outdoor fires, including fuel reduction burns, a permit from QFES is mandatory. The permit outlines conditions like fire width, ground conditions, and necessary firebreaks. Contact your local fire warden for permit details and conditions.
During emergencies, clearing may be conducted following the directives of authorized fire officers without prior approval. However, if the work extends beyond exemptions and codes, a post-event development approval may be required.
Post-bushfire, clearing fallen debris from tracks, roads, and firebreaks doesn’t require a permit. In declared disaster areas, special exemptions for clearing apply to facilitate clean-up efforts.
Planning Regulation 2017. (2017). Planning Regulation.
https://www.legislation.qld.gov.au/view/pdf/inforce/current/sl-2017-0194
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services. (2021). Fire Permits and Regulations. https://www.qld.gov.au/emergency/safety/fire/fire-permits
Brisbane City Council. (2022). Tree Removal Policies. https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/laws-and-permits/laws-and-permits-for-residents/vegetation-and-the-local-law/apply-for-a-permit-to-work-on-protected-vegetation/
Gold Coast City Council. (2022). Vegetation Management. https://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/Planning-building/Development-applications/Development-application-types/Tree-vegetation-removal-on-private-land
Brisbane City Development application portal
https://developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au/
This article provides an overview of regulations and procedures for tree removal and land clearing in bushfire zones, emphasizing the importance of compliance with local laws and the necessity of permits for certain activities. If you have any doubts, please give us a call and we’d be happy to give you advice on your particular tree and situation.
