The rules about overhanging vegetation

Overhanging trees and bushes can be a real nuisance.  This page explains the rules and how to go about having overhanging vegetation removed.

If the tree is planted on private property and is overhanging the street or footpath then it is an enforcement issue.

The Council can require the property owner to trim or remove the tree to minimise any obstruction to pedestrians or traffic.

How to complain

Phone our customer services team on 03 441 0499 Queenstown or 03 443 0024 Wanaka.  Or email services@qldc.govt.nz

What will the Council do?

The Council will put in a request for service with Lakes Environmental who will serve a notice to the property owner.  This will give them a limited amount of time to have the tree trimmed before the Council carries out the work at the owners cost.

Property owners do have the right to apply to the Court to have the notice set aside, but must do so within ten days of receiving it.

If the tree is planted on Council property including roads and reserves it is the Council’s responsibility.

However any trimming must be in line with the Council’s tree policy and District Plan requirements.

How to complain

Phone our customer services team on 03 441 0499 Queenstown or 03 443 0024 Wanaka.  Or email services@qldc.govt.nz

What will the Council do?

The Council will put in a request for service to have the complaint assessed.  If required, the Council’s Horticulture team will trim or remove the overhanging vegetation.

If the tree is planted on private property and is overhanging a neighbour’s property it is a private matter.

A dispute between residents over trees on private property is a civil matter and needs to be resolved between the parties concerned.  The Council will not get involved in this type of matter.

How to complain

Contact Queenstown Citizens Advice on 03 442 6799 or Wanaka Community Networks 03 443 7799, or your lawyer.

Some tree removal on private property does require resource consent.

Consent is required for any tree removal or maintenance in the Arrowtown Historic Zone and that is protected by the District Plan.  See links for further information.

Make a request to remove or trim a tree on Council land.

Requests must be made in writing to the Parks Manager.  Requests will be considered on a case by case basis and must be in line with the Council’s Tree Policy.