Council and rules
Do I need permission to remove a tree on my property?
Often not, but it depends. In the City of Swan, permission may be needed if the property is heritage listed, sits in a heritage area (parts of Guildford, for example), or carries conditions from an earlier development approval. Street trees on the verge belong to the City and must not be cut or removed without its permission. If you are unsure, ring the City of Swan before work starts.
What about a tree on the boundary or in my neighbour's yard?
In WA, overhanging branches and roots are a civil matter between neighbours rather than a council permit issue. Talking to your neighbour first is the easiest route, and sharing one job done from both sides often saves both of you money. If a tree is protected or heritage listed, the council rules still apply.
Is there a bushfire requirement?
Many properties in Swan View, Bellevue, Helena Valley, Jane Brook and the Swan Valley edge are in bushfire-prone areas. The City of Swan publishes a fire hazard reduction notice each year that tells landowners what to do and by when. Read the current notice for your property.
What about shot-hole borer?
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) manages polyphagous shot-hole borer across the metropolitan area and has rules about moving infested wood and green waste. Check DPIRD's current information if you suspect it.
The work itself
Should I remove the tree or prune it?
Dead trees, trees with new leans, split main forks and trees rotting at the base usually point to removal. A healthy tree that is just too big can often be pruned. The contractor should explain both options.
Is the stump included when a tree is removed?
Only if the quote says so. Grinding and full removal are separate items.
What happens to the wood?
It depends on the quote. Branches are usually chipped. Logs may be taken away or left for firewood. Mulch can be left for garden beds.
Do I need to move things before the crew arrives?
Move cars, outdoor furniture, pot plants and anything fragile away from the work area. Let neighbours know if trucks will park on the street.
Prices and quotes
How much will it cost?
See our cost guide for 2026 planning ranges. The actual price always comes from an on-site look.
Why do quotes differ so much?
Different methods, different inclusions (stump, wood removal, clean-up) and different assumptions about access. Compare line by line.
Are the contractors insured?
We ask the contractors we work with to hold the licences and insurance the job needs. Ask to see current certificates before work starts.
Specific jobs
Can palms be cleaned instead of removed?
Yes. A palm clean removes dead fronds and seed stalks and is much cheaper than a removal. See palm tree removal.
Will bamboo come back?
Often a few shoots appear from missed pieces of rhizome. Cut them as they appear and the patch usually gives up. See bamboo removal.
Can stumps be ground near a wall?
Usually, with care. A small piece may need to be left very close to brickwork. See stump grinding.
What about trees near power lines?
Network lines are Western Power's. The service wire to the house is usually the owner's to keep clear, but the work must be done by someone qualified. If a tree is touching live lines, stay clear and call Western Power.
Before the day
How should I prepare the yard?
Clear a path from the gate to the tree, move vehicles off the driveway if a truck needs it, and keep pets inside or away from the area. Tell the crew about anything they cannot see: reticulation lines, septic tanks, garden lighting cables and soft ground.
What if it rains?
Light rain rarely stops tree work, but strong wind, lightning or very wet ground can. The contractor will decide on the day if conditions are unsafe and rebook.
Can I keep the firewood?
Usually yes. Say so when you get the quote; leaving logs on site is often cheaper than carting them away.
Do you work on commercial or rural properties?
Enquiries from small businesses, rural-residential blocks and Swan Valley properties are passed on in the same way as house blocks. Larger sites may need a longer look before a quote, so mention the size of the property and the number of trees when you get in touch.
Next steps
Questions people ask before they commit
Do you do the tree work yourselves?
No. This is a referral website. Your enquiry goes to an independent local contractor, who quotes and does the work.
How quickly can someone come out?
It depends on the contractor's schedule and the season. Ring and explain the situation, especially if there is storm damage, and you will be told what is possible.
Can I be there when the quote is done?
Yes, and it helps. You can point out the trees, discuss options and agree on what happens to the stump and wood.
What areas do you cover?
Midland, Guildford, Woodbridge, Midvale, Swan View, Stratton, Jane Brook, Viveash, Bellevue, Helena Valley and Ellenbrook.
What if I am not happy with the work?
Raise it with the contractor before they leave the site; most issues are easy to fix on the day. Your agreement is with the contractor, so any dispute is with them.