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The conditions on removing trees from your property or Council's property are explained in Tree Preservation.

You can plant trees on private property without seeking permission from Council (but not on the nature strip; please see Street Trees ). However, for your own long-term benefit, consult this list of things to consider before you plant. Please note that once your tree is well established, you may need to take into account Willoughby’s  Tree & Bushland Preservation Order before you prune or remove the tree (see the order for criteria). The  Indigenous Plant Species List will help you find a suitable tree native to Willoughby.

1. Think about how big a tree you would like, and other characteristics such as sun, water and care requirements. Due to the ongoing drought, it would probably be better to get a native plant or one that likes dry conditions. Also make sure that the tree you want to plant isn’t considered a pest! Check out the Weeds page, or visit Council in person for some helpful brochures on preferred plants.
2. What other plants are around? Would the new plant you have chosen fit in well with them or look a bit odd? Are you going to end up shading other plants? Will your new tree struggle to find light or root space if it’s close to an existing tree? Digging near established plants could injure them.
3. Look at the area you would like to plant a tree in. Look up; are there powerlines around that the tree could grow into? Might you block or infringe on an easement or right-of-way? Are there cables or pipes underground that the roots could break (to find out, take a look at your DA consent plans or try calling Dial Before You Dig on 1100)? It’s important to consider the future size of the tree and infrastructure when finding a good place for it.
4. How will the tree affect your house? Keep in mind that large trees should be planted at least four metres from buildings. Will the tree provide summer shade without blocking winter sun? Be aware that a tree’s root system will be about twice the height of the tree.
5. How will the tree affect your neighbours? Be considerate and think about whether it will shade their property, hinder their view, impact on foundations or change the fence.
6. If you have children or pets, avoid plants with toxic leaves or fruit.
7. When actually buying a plant, make sure it is healthy. Sometimes trees that are on special from nurseries have diseases that will influence the way the tree grows. Make sure you are happy and confident that the species you are buying will be suitable both for the area and for what you wanted the plant for in the first place.

Council encourages its residents to keep up Willoughby’s reputation as a green leafy neighbourhood.