Do you need a permit to cut a tree in Tshwane?

The short answer

It depends on the tree and on the property. Some trees are protected, and removing a protected tree without the required permission can lead to trouble. Because the rules turn on the species, the size of the tree and where it stands, there is no single answer that applies to every tree in the city.

That is frustrating if you just want a tree gone, but it is the honest position. The rule that matters is the one that applies to your tree, and that is a question for the municipality, not for a website or a contractor alone.

Why some trees are protected

Municipalities protect trees for reasons that have nothing to do with the owner's convenience. A large, old tree provides shade, absorbs water, cools the street, houses birds and insects, and takes decades to replace. Cities also protect particular species and particular trees because of their age, their size or their heritage value.

Pretoria has a strong tree culture, and the older suburbs in particular carry mature stock that took generations to grow. That is part of why the question comes up so often in this city.

What to check before you fell

Start by identifying the tree. A contractor who works in the area can usually tell you what species it is, which is the first thing you need to know. Take clear photos of the whole tree, the leaves and the trunk, and note roughly how tall and how thick it is.

Then take the question to the City of Tshwane. Ask whether the tree or its species is protected, whether a permit or an exemption is needed, and what the process involves. Keep a record of who you spoke to and when, because you may need to show that you asked.

When a tree is dangerous

There is a difference between a tree you would prefer gone and a tree that is a danger. A split trunk, a lifted root plate after heavy rain, a tree leaning over a building or a tree resting on a structure is a safety matter, and it may need attention urgently.

Even then, do not assume the rules disappear. Speak to the municipality as well as getting the tree made safe. In any situation where people or property are at immediate risk, safety comes first - but say what you have done and why.

Where a body corporate or estate fits in

If you live in a complex or a security estate, there may be a second set of rules. A tree on common property is usually the body corporate's responsibility, and the trustees or managing agent handle the approval. Conduct rules can also cover what owners may do to trees on their own stands.

So even before the municipal question, ask the managing agent. Getting the internal approval first avoids a situation where a tree has been felled and the complex is unhappy about it afterwards.

What a contractor can and cannot do

A contractor can identify a tree, assess whether it is dangerous and carry out the work safely. A contractor cannot decide whether a permit is required for your tree, and no honest one will promise that permission is not needed.

If a contractor offers to remove a large tree without any discussion of permits, treat that as a warning sign. Ask the question yourself and keep the answer.

Practical steps

• Photograph and identify the tree before you plan anything.
• Ask the City of Tshwane whether that species or tree is protected.
• If you are in a complex, get the body corporate's approval as well.
• Keep a record of who you spoke to, what they said and when.
• Only then arrange quotes, so everyone is quoting the same, permitted job.

In summary

Some trees are protected and the rules depend on the tree and the property. Check with the City of Tshwane before any large or old tree is felled, get the body corporate's approval where one applies, and keep a note of the answers. This page is general information, not legal advice, and it is not a substitute for asking the municipality about your own tree.

Frequently asked questions

Related

• Tree felling
• Emergency tree removal
• How to tell if a tree is dangerous