When trees or branches fall unexpectedly or because of weather, Council is not legally responsible to pay compensation.

We look after many thousands of trees on public land across Wollongong. We regularly maintain trees to keep them in a safe condition. We also respond to all reports of trees that are unsafe, or might become unsafe.

However, we can’t inspect every tree on public land, and trees or branches can fall at any time – even from healthy trees. Weather events like storms or high winds can also cause trees and branches to fall suddenly.

To make a claim about damage caused by a tree, you will need to prove that Council knew there was a problem with the tree and was negligent in dealing with it.

See the ‘Drains and Pipes’ section above for information about tree roots entering drains.