Scotland Island is home to the protected Pittwater Spotted Gum Forest which includes the Spotted Gums, Sydney Red Gum (Angophora), She-oaks (Casuarinas), Grey Ironbark and Grey Gum, and are an important part of the island’s natural character. It is listed as an Endangered Ecological Community, occurring entirely within the former Pittwater Local Government Area, on the Barrenjoey Peninsula and Western Pittwater Foreshores. Remnants are typically small however there are a few remnants in Council reserves including Elizabeth Park and one remnant within Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.

Trees cannot be removed to improve views or for solar access. However, there are occasions in which tree removal is necessary. In many cases, permits are required, but some removals are allowed without a permit.

The Northern Beaches Council page on Removing and Pruning Trees on Private Land has information on what you can do without a permit, and in what circumstances your require a permit.