It’s no secret we Sydneysiders are blessed to live in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, full of leafy streets, parks, and backyards shaded by decade- (sometimes century-) old trees. But with such greenery comes tree roots. These pesky roots love water, which means they love to find their way into your drains.
Perhaps you can relate? If you’re experiencing slow-draining sinks, showers or toilets, gurgling sounds when you flush, water backing up during heavy rain, unpleasant odours near drains or inspection points or a frequent need for drain cleaning, tree root intrusion could be the issue.
Invasive tree roots are the #1 cause of recurring drain blockages in Sydney.
This is especially so in older suburbs like the North Shore, Inner West and Eastern Suburbs, where mature trees with invasive roots and old clay pipes are common. As a result, we are going to look at the 18 Sydney trees most likely to block your sewer lines or stormwater drains. We’ll also share the secret of how to fix the issue permanently without digging up your yard.
Warning Signs Your Drain is Blocked by Tree Roots
While we mentioned a few earlier, here’s a more comprehensive list of the warning signs that your drains could be under attack from tree roots.
Slow-draining sinks, showers, or toilets
When water takes longer than usual to drain, it could mean tree roots are partially blocking the flow inside your pipes. If not dealt with early, the roots grow thicker, creating a tangled barrier that traps debris, grease, and waste, leading to even slower drainage or a burst pipe over time.
Gurgling sounds from drains
Hearing bubbling or gurgling when you flush or drain water? That could mean there’s trapped air struggling to escape past root blockages. It’s a common symptom that something deeper in your system is restricting flow.
Sewage odours in your yard
Persistent bad smells around outdoor drains or inspection points often signal cracked pipes leaking wastewater into the soil. Tree roots thrive in these nutrient-rich leaks, worsening the damage and deepening the blockage.
Recurring blockages (cleared, but come back)
If you’ve had your drain cleared more than once but it keeps blocking (frustrating), you’re likely dealing with root regrowth. Standard drain cleaning only removes the symptom, not the invading roots, which don’t stop; they keep coming back!
Patches of extra green grass (sewage leak)
An unusually lush or fast-growing patch of grass is most likely caused by leaking wastewater fertilising the soil above a cracked pipe. This leak then creates a perfect entry point for more nearby tree roots seeking moisture.
Wet spots or sinkholes in yard
Do you have an area in your yard that’s constantly damp or sunken? It may mean there’s a significant break in your underground pipes. What happens is, as water escapes, it softens the soil, creating a kind of mini sinkhole and a welcome mat for root invasion!
Sound familiar?
If you’ve noticed one or more of these symptoms and have any of the trees listed below, tree roots are likely the culprit.
Why Tree Roots Love Your Sewer Pipes
Trees need water to survive and thrive. As a result, the tree’s roots are naturally drawn to the constant moisture and nutrients inside sewer pipes. Even the smallest hairline crack can release vapour that attracts nearby roots like a drop of blood attracts a shark.
Once inside, they grow rapidly, feeding on the steady water source and expanding until they cause total blockage. So, what starts as a small tree root intrusion can become a full obstruction in as little as 6–12 months.
If left untreated, the pressure builds and can crack or collapse your pipes entirely. The longer you wait, the worse (and significantly more expensive) the damage becomes.
3 Worst Tree Offenders in Sydney
Let’s start with Sydney’s worst offenders. These trees are especially dangerous because their aggressive roots actively seek out water sources. In our experience at The Relining Company, these trees are responsible for most of Sydney’s recurring drain blockages and costly pipe repairs.
Camphor Laurel (Cinnamomum camphora)
One of the most common culprits.
Why it’s dangerous for drains: Camphor Laurel trees’ aggressive roots grow fast, and are highly invasive, breaking into pipes in search of moisture.
Level of invasiveness: High
How to identify it: Large, glossy leaves with a strong camphor scent when crushed; dense, spreading canopy. If you have Google Lens, you can use this App to identify it.
What we see: As pipe relining specialists, we remove Camphor Laurel roots from Sydney drains almost daily, especially in older suburbs with established greenery that we mentioned earlier.
Average Root Span: Up to 30 metres
Mini Case: We recently relined 15 metres of sewer pipe, which was completely choked by Camphor laurel roots in Lane Cove on Sydney’s North Shore.
Fig Trees (Ficus family)
You likely recognise these from some of Sydney’s most famous streets and parks, and while we love this native Australian tree, its massive root growth can quickly become a nightmare for piping.
Why it’s dangerous for drains: Fig trees are massive, especially the older ones. And while they are iconic to Sydney and incredibly beautiful, they are also notorious for their thick, aggressive roots that you have probably tripped over at least once in your lifetime. As you can imagine, they wrap around pipes and are so strong that they force their way through cracks.
Level of invasiveness: Very High
How to identify it: Huge trees, with large buttress roots above ground, and shiny, dark-green leaves.
What we see: We’ve seen entire stormwater systems overtaken by fig roots, particularly in Sydney’s Inner West and North Shore. As a result, several Sydney councils have had to (sadly) completely remove these trees.
Average Root Span: Up to an incredible 40 metres
Mini Case: Our team relined a severely blocked drain in Balmain where fig roots had shattered terracotta pipes beneath a sandstone retaining wall.
Willow Trees (Salix species)
These imported trees, while beautiful, are now considered invasive weeds in many areas.
Why it’s dangerous for drains: Willows thrive on moisture and will aggressively seek out water sources, often invading pipes, septic systems, and even foundations.
Level of invasiveness: Extreme
How to identify it: Long, drooping branches, narrow pointed leaves, and preference for damp soil near creeks or drainage lines.
What we see: Willow roots are a recurring problem in Sydney’s outer suburbs, especially where they’re planted near waterways or stormwater drains.
Average Root Span: 20–25 metres
Mini Case: We relined a blocked sewer line in Penrith after willow roots filled every joint along a 12-metre section.
Have one of these trees? Don’t wait for a blockage or sewage backup. Book a pipe inspection today.
15 More Trees That Block Sydney Drains
While the top three offenders cause the majority of severe pipe blockages, many other suspect tree roots across Sydney are also known for their invasive root systems. Below is a quick reference guide to 15 common trees that can damage your drains.
What If You Already Have One of These Trees?
No need to panic, and there’s no cutting down trees or even removing tree roots. Here’s what to do instead:
1. Get a CCTV drain inspection
The best thing you can do is get a professional pipe inspection. This involves using a small, high-definition camera that is fed through your pipes. It shows us (and you) exactly what’s happening underground. It can detect not only full-blown root intrusions, but also minor cracks that pose risks.
- Time: Takes just 30–60 minutes
- Result: You’ll receive video proof and a clear, expert recommendation on what to do next.
2. Consider pipe relining (not tree removal)
You can keep your tree and protect your pipes. Not only that, but there’s no excavation because pipe relining seals cracks from the inside. As a result, it blocks root re-entry and restores full pipe function, all without digging up your yard.
- No excavation or landscaping damage
- Backed by warranty
- Permanent fix that saves thousands
3. Please don’t ignore the problem
Whatever you do, do not ignore it, because things will only get worse. Leaving it too long can lead to:
- Complete sewage backups into your home
- Costly emergency repairs
- Health and property damage from leaks and contamination
Remember, early intervention costs less.
Contact us for an obligation-free consultation before it gets worse.
How Pipe Relining Fixes Tree Root Damage
Pipe relining is gaining in popularity, and it’s easy to see why once you know how it works. Let’s take a closer look at how the no-dig relining process works, so you know exactly what to expect from start to finish.
The process
- CCTV inspection: As stated, the first step is always a CCTV inspection, where we insert a small camera into your pipes to assess and locate the damage caused by tree roots.
- Root removal: Using high-pressure water jetting, we blast out all root intrusions and debris.
- Pipe relining: A durable epoxy liner is inserted, creating a new, seamless pipe inside your old one so roots can’t get back in.
- Quality check: A final camera inspection confirms a perfect seal and smooth flow.
Why relining beats traditional repair
- No digging up your yard, driveway, or garden
- Done in hours, not days
- Stronger than original pipes — root-proof and watertight
- Backed by warranty
- 50–70% cheaper than excavation
- Minimal disruption to your home, garden and everyday routine
What our customers say
“We thought we’d have to dig up our driveway for weeks but The Relining Company fixed it the same day!”
~ Kathy from North Bondi
“Tree roots had blocked our drains three times in three years! After relining, it’s been two years with zero issues.”
~ John from Pymble
“Professional, fast, and no mess. You’d never know we had major pipe work done. I recommend them to anyone, cheers guys.”
~ Lucas from Rozelle
With 20+ years of experience fixing tree root–blocked drains across Sydney, we’ve seen it all, and relining remains the most effective long-term solution.
Book your no-dig pipe relining and protect your home from root damage today.
Trees That WON’T Block Your Drains
Thankfully, there are plenty of pipe-safe, non-invasive options that not only look great but won’t tunnel into your drains. From over 20+ years of experience dealing with tree root intrusion, here are five of the best tree species with shallow root systems for Sydney homeowners:
Apple Trees: Compact root systems make them safe for small gardens without threatening your underground pipes.
Feijoa Trees: Feijoas are known for their shallow, non-invasive roots. They also create great screening and are hardy trees that thrive in Sydney’s climate.
Coastal Golden Wattle: A beautiful native with gentle roots that stabilise soil without spreading aggressively toward pipes.
Olive Trees: These Mediterranean trees are slow-growing with contained roots; a stylish, addition to your yard that’s also pipe-friendly.
Bay Trees: Ideal for hedging or pots, bay trees are low risk for pipe intrusion and easy to manage with light pruning.
If you’re thinking of replacing problem trees in Sydney, then these are excellent, drain-safe alternatives to plant trees.
FAQs
How do I know if tree roots are blocking my drain?
Look for slow drains, gurgling noises, or sewage smells coming from your pipes. You might also see wet patches or unusually green grass near drainage lines. A CCTV drain inspection can show exactly where and how tree roots have entered your drain pipes.
Can tree roots damage PVC pipes?
Yes. Even PVC drainage pipes can be affected if there are joints, weak seals, or small cracks. Roots naturally seek moisture and can push into the tiniest openings, eventually splitting or collapsing damaged pipes.
Do I have to remove the tree to fix my drains?
Not at all. With modern pipe relining, you can clear tree roots, repair your pipes, and keep your tree. The epoxy lining forms a seamless barrier inside the old pipe, eliminating the need for excavation or tree removal.
How much does pipe relining cost compared to digging?
Typically, pipe relining costs 50–70% less than traditional excavation. Relining also saves your landscaping and driveways from being dug up, restoring your drainage pipes to full function without disruption.
Will tree roots come back after pipe relining?
No. Once relined, your pipes are completely sealed, meaning roots can’t re-enter. The epoxy resin creates a tough inner layer that’s smoother and stronger than the original pipe. Many homeowners also install a root barrier for extra long-term protection.
How quickly can you fix a tree root blockage?
Most tree root blockages can be assessed and relined within 1–2 days, depending on the severity. Our process includes CCTV inspection, root removal, and relining, restoring your drain pipes to like-new condition.
Which Sydney suburbs have the most tree root problems?
We see the highest number of tree root blocked drains in older, tree-lined regions such as North Shore, Inner West, Eastern Suburbs, Northern Beaches, Ryde, and Parramatta — where mature trees and ageing drainage pipes are most common.
Don’t Wait for a Sewage Disaster
Tree roots are the #1 cause of recurring drain blockages. If you have one of these trees close to your home, and a symptom of slow drainage, then there’s a high probability that tree root intrusion is the culprit. And if you don’t deal with it early, the problem will only worsen, costing you way more in the long run.
Modern pipe relining fixes it permanently without destroying your property. And with 20+ years of experience, no one does relining better in Sydney than The Relining Company.
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