Can You Remove a Verge Tree in Mandurah Without Council Permission?

Can You Remove a Verge Tree in Mandurah Without Council Permission?

Verge trees do a lot of quiet work for our streets, providing shade, softening the streetscape, and supporting local wildlife. But they can also frustrate homeowners, roots lifting a driveway, branches blocking a view, or a tree that simply looks past its best. It’s one of the most common questions our team hears, can I just remove the tree on my verge myself?

The honest answer is that it depends on ownership, council policy, and the specific circumstances. Before arranging any verge tree removal in Mandurah, it helps to understand how the process actually works.

What Is a Verge Tree?

Even though it sits right outside your front fence, a verge tree growing in this space is usually considered a public asset rather than something that belongs to the homeowner.

This differs from a tree growing entirely within your private boundary, which generally falls under your own responsibility. Because verge trees line public streets and contribute to the wider streetscape, they’re typically treated as community assets that benefit the whole neighbourhood, not just the property they sit in front of.

Do You Need Council Permission for Verge Tree Removal in Mandurah?

In most cases, Yes. Trees on the verge are part of the public road reserve, and local government generally retains responsibility for their upkeep, pruning, and removal. This means residents typically can’t lop, prune, or remove a verge tree without going through the proper channels first.

Exactly what’s required can vary depending on where the tree is located, why removal is being requested, and whether it falls within a protected area or is listed as significant for its size, species, or heritage value. Because these details change from property to property, our team always recommends confirming current requirements directly with the City of Mandurah before any work begins.

Situations Where Council Approval May Be Required

Approval requirements can apply in situations such as:

• Removing a tree to make way for a renovation or new driveway access
• A tree that appears damaged, diseased, or in poor health
• A tree that’s creating a public safety concern, such as blocking sightlines for drivers or pedestrians
• Works involving underground services, powerlines, or other infrastructure
• Trees affected by a construction or development project

Each request is assessed on its own merits, a tree causing a genuine safety issue is treated very differently to one someone would simply prefer to see gone for aesthetic reasons.

What If the Tree Is Dangerous?

If you believe a verge tree poses an immediate risk, after storm damage, or if large limbs look unstable, the right move is to report it to the council promptly rather than removing it yourself. Councils generally have a process for assessing hazardous trees quickly, and acting outside this process can create legal and safety complications, even with good intentions.

This is where a qualified arborist becomes invaluable. Our team can carry out a proper inspection, assess the level of risk, and provide clear recommendations, documentation that’s often exactly what’s needed to support a council application.

Tips Before Planning Verge Tree Removal

A few simple steps before arranging tree work near your boundary can save time and hassle:

• Confirm exactly where your property boundary ends and the verge begins
• Contact the City of Mandurah to check current requirements for the tree in question
• Familiarise yourself with local council tree regulations WA, as these can differ between shires and change over time
• Arrange a professional inspection if you have any concerns about the tree’s health or stability
• Hold off on starting any work until the necessary approvals are confirmed in writing

Conclusion

Removing a tree on your verge isn’t as simple as removing one on private land. Because these trees form part of the public streetscape, council involvement is usually part of the process, so it’s always worth checking current requirements before arranging any work. If you’re unsure where you stand, our team at Jordan’s Tree Services is happy to talk through your situation. Getting professional advice early is the easiest way to make sure verge tree removal in Mandurah is handled safely, correctly, and without unnecessary delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who owns the verge trees in Mandurah? 

Verge trees are generally considered public assets managed by the City of Mandurah, even though they sit directly in front of a private property. This means approval is typically required before any pruning or removal takes place.

Can I prune or remove a verge tree myself? 

In most circumstances, no. Because verge trees fall under council responsibility, unauthorised pruning or removal can lead to penalties. It’s best to check with the City of Mandurah first, and to have any assessment or works carried out by a qualified professional.

How can an arborist help with verge tree removal? 

An arborist can assess the tree’s health and safety, provide the documentation often needed for a council application, and carry out any approved work safely and correctly, reducing risk to your property and the surrounding area.