Who is responsible for carrying out approved work?

Once approval has been obtained from Council for work to a tree, it is the responsibility of the applicant to organise the works. An approval is only valid for twelve months. In selecting a contractor to carry out the works Council recommends obtaining the following information:

1. Obtain at least three written quotes.
2. Ask the contractor to provide a copy of their public liability insurance, including Workers' Compensation.
3. Confirm the contractor is a member of a professional association, such as the National Arborists Association of Australia or the Tree Contractors Association Australia which requires its members to conform to a code of ethics, meet the requirements of the current Occupational Health and Safety Legislation and abide by WorkCover NSW Code of Practice for the Amenity Tree Industry.
4. Ask if the contractor is qualified to at least Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Certificate Level 2 (Tree Worker) for tree removal work or AQF Certificate Level 3 (Trade Level) for large tree pruning works.
5. Ask if the contractor has knowledge of:
   • Council's Tree Management Order
   • The new Australian Standard 4373-2007 'Pruning of Amenity Trees'
     
   and can comply with Council's requirements and conditions of approval.

• Introduction
• Why are urban trees important?
• What is a 'tree' according to the TMO?
• When do I need to put in a tree works application?
• What trees are exempt from the TMO?
• What work can I do without completing a tree work application?
• What will happen if I breach the TMO?
• How much does a tree work application cost?
• Who can apply to carry out work on a tree?
• What if I want my neighbour to work on their tree?
• Should I submit supporting information with my application?
• What happens after my application is lodged with Council?
• What if I'm unhappy with Council's decision?
• Who is responsible for approved work?
• What should I consider when replacing a tree?
• What happens to trees on proposed development sites?
• What do I do if a tree is damaged in a storm?
• What if it is an emergency or public safety issue?