What Trees Are Protected In Queensland?

Queensland is home to many different species of trees, some of which are protected under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 (Qld). This Act places restrictions on the destruction or removal of native trees; effectively providing protection for them. In this blog post, we will discuss what trees are protected in Queensland and why.

Under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 (Qld), all native trees have general protection against destruction or removal. This means that it is illegal to damage or remove any native tree without a permit from the Department of Environment and Science (DES) in Queensland. The DES issues permits for the destruction of protected trees if it is carried out for specific purposes such as development, land clearing or scientific research. In addition to general native tree protection, there are also specific categories of protected trees that are listed in the Act. These include:

Certain rare and endangered species of trees are protected from destruction or removal due to their rarity or because they may be under threat from human activities such as habitat loss or climate change. Examples of these species include spotted gum (Corymbia maculata), rough-barked apple (Angophora floribunda) and hoop pine (Araucaria cunninghamii).

These are native species that have been identified by the DES as being important for conservation purposes but may not be threatened with extinction at present. Examples include red mahogany (Eucalyptus resinifera), blue quandong (Elaeocarpus grandis) and bunya pine (Araucaria bidwillii).

These are areas that have been designated by the DES as having significant ecological value and may contain multiple species of protected trees. Examples include national parks, state forests and reserves.

The size or age limit varies according to region but generally includes any tree over 35m tall, 10m wide at breast height (1.3m above ground level) or over 100 years old. If a tree meets one or more of these criteria, then it is considered protected from destruction or removal unless a permit has been granted by the DES for specific purposes such as development, land clearing, etc.

Trees play an important role in our environment—both aesthetically and ecologically—so it’s important to protect them where possible. In Queensland, all native trees have general protection against destruction or removal while certain categories such as rare and endangered species, listed trees, significant vegetation areas and those over certain sizes/ages also have additional legal protection under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 (Qld).

It is illegal to damage or remove any native tree without a permit from the Department of Environment and Science. However, permits can be granted if they meet specific requirements. You should always check with your local council before removing any tree on your property!

At Arborclimb , we’re fully abreast of the regulations in Queensland and we will help you identify any protected trees on your property. If you need an approved arborist to assist with tree removal or pruning , contact our team today !