Does the tree protection zone extend onto neighbouring land?
Yes. A Tree Protection Zone (TPZ) is based on the protected tree and is not confined to the property boundary, so it can extend onto neighbouring land. If part of a neighbouring protected tree’s TPZ extends onto your development site, works within that area may need to be addressed through the applicable tree approval or Tree Management Plan requirements.
Yes. A tree’s protection zone can cross property boundaries.
For a protected tree, ACT City Services defines the TPZ as:
- the area under the tree canopy;
- the 2 m wide area surrounding the vertical projection of the canopy; and
- the 4 m wide area surrounding the trunk, measured at 1 m above ground level.
A different protection zone can also be specified through an approved Tree Management Plan (TMP).
Because these distances are measured from the tree and its canopy rather than the block boundary, the TPZ can extend from one property into another.
Example: A protected tree may be located 1 m inside your neighbour’s boundary, but if its canopy and associated TPZ extend across the boundary, part of your site can still be within that tree’s TPZ. Proposed excavation, foundations, services or construction access in that area may therefore need to consider the tree.
Reference: ACT City Services – Tree protection laws ? Tree protection zone - https://www.cityservices.act.gov.au/trees-and-nature/trees/tree-protection-laws
Link on the answer: https://www.cityservices.act.gov.au/trees-and-nature/trees/tree-protection-laws
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| Dual Occupancy Q&A | #546 | agrees | 01/09/2026 |