Waverley Council > Parks & Trees > Damage Caused by Tree Roots

Damage Caused by Tree Roots

Council attempts to prevent problems caused by tree roots through careful street tree selection, as well as:

• root control barriers at time of planting
• retrospective root pruning and root control barriers

Root pruning and installing root control barriers are sometimes the best way to deal with invasive roots. An obvious benefit of this option is that the tree doesn’t have to be removed.

Root investigation is required prior to root pruning or the installation of root control barriers adjacent to existing trees. Root pruning may impair the anchorage of the tree to some extent and may not be suitable in all circumstances.

Sewer and Stormwater Blockages

If your sewage or stormwater line becomes blocked and you think the cause may be roots from a Council tree, call Council on 9369 8000 during normal working hours, or, in urgent after-hours situations, Council's current contractor, Clovelly Plumbing, on 9665 8391 or 0418 256 752. Council will attempt to clear your drain, at no charge (within the terms of the Drain Blockage Policy). Please note that reasonable rates will be charged if the blockage is found not to be Council's responsibility. If you have recently paid a private contractor to clear a blockage which you think was caused by roots from a Council tree, you may be entitled to some reimbursement. To lodge a claim, complete the application form and return it together with a copy of the paid invoice.