If you own a property in Dunedin with a listed significant tree, you may be eligible for financial assistance from the Dunedin City Council to help cover the cost of essential tree work — including pruning, removal, and safety work.
Many property owners aren't aware that council protection on significant trees can come with support for maintenance and safety-related work — not just restrictions.
The Fund for Maintaining Significant Trees is a Dunedin City Council initiative designed to help property owners care for trees that are officially listed as significant in the Dunedin District Plan.
These trees are protected because of their environmental, heritage, or landscape value. The fund recognises that maintaining them can be costly and helps offset part of that expense.
You may be eligible to apply if:
Note: Cosmetic pruning or routine trimming does not qualify for this fund.
The fund supports necessary arboricultural work, such as:
All work must be carried out by a qualified arborist.
If your application is approved, the council may contribute:
Important limits: Funding is subject to availability, and only one successful application per property every five years.
Before you apply, you must:
Applications submitted after work has begun will not be approved.
The application is completed online via the Dunedin City Council website. You'll need to provide property details, confirmation the tree is listed as significant, a copy of your approved land use consent, and an arborist's quote.
Council typically provides a decision within approximately 10 working days.
Apply Online for Financial Assistance
Download the Fund Brochure (PDF)
View Dunedin City Council's Significant Trees information
If you need advice or an arborist report for a significant tree in Dunedin, contact us before applying. We can provide the quote you need for your application and ensure the work meets council requirements.