Do you need a licence to use a chainsaw in NSW?

No. Chainsaw use is not one of the SafeWork NSW high risk work licence classes, so there is no chainsaw licence. But SafeWork NSW’s Tree works code of practice says chainsaws should only be operated by trained and competent persons. A statement of attainment from a chainsaw course is one way to show that training.

Which unit is a chainsaw course?

Usually AHCMOM213 Operate and maintain chainsaws, which replaced AHCARB205A. Some courses add FWPCOT2273 Trim and cut felled trees.

Can you use a chainsaw one-handed or above your head?

Not under SafeWork NSW’s Tree works code. Chainsaws, including top-handled ones, should not be operated one-handed, and should not be operated above shoulder height; the code says a pole saw may be used for small branches above shoulder height.

How long is a chainsaw course?

Courses listed on this site run one or two days. Only two listed providers publish a price: $388 and $655.

Chainsaw course in NSW: licence, units and the safety rules

Whether you need a chainsaw licence in NSW, which units a chainsaw course covers, and what SafeWork NSW’s tree works code expects of operators.

Updated 2026-10-16

Is there a chainsaw licence?

No. Chainsaw use is not one of the high risk work licence classes SafeWork NSW issues, so there is no licence to apply for. What there is: a duty on the business to make sure the work is done safely, and SafeWork NSW’s Tree works code of practice (approved, in force from 27 March 2026) says the operator should be trained and competent to use a chainsaw and understand reaction forces such as kickback, push-back and pull-in. A statement of attainment from a chainsaw course is one way to show that training.

The units

AHCMOM213 Operate and maintain chainsaws — the general chainsaw unit (it replaced AHCARB205A).
FWPCOT2273 Trim and cut felled trees — for cross-cutting and trimming felled timber (it replaced FWPCOT2256).

Ask the provider which units a course includes before you book, and check they hold them on their scope.

What the tree works code expects

Both hands on the saw — chainsaws, including top-handled saws, should not be operated one-handed.
No cutting above shoulder height — the code says a pole saw may be used for small branches up there.
A site assessment before starting, and a saw in good order with its safety features (chain brake, throttle lock, chain catcher) working.
Cut-resistant leg protection (chaps) to AS/NZS 4453.3, plus the other PPE the code lists.

Cost and duration

Courses listed on this site run one or two days. Few providers publish prices; the two that do advertise $388 and $655.

Find chainsaw courses · Working at heights

Chainsaw operation courses near you: we list providers in Blue Mountains & Penrith.

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a licence to use a chainsaw in NSW?: No. Chainsaw use is not one of the SafeWork NSW high risk work licence classes, so there is no chainsaw licence. But SafeWork NSW’s Tree works code of practice says chainsaws should only be operated by trained and competent persons. A statement of attainment from a chainsaw course is one way to show that training.
Which unit is a chainsaw course?: Usually AHCMOM213 Operate and maintain chainsaws, which replaced AHCARB205A. Some courses add FWPCOT2273 Trim and cut felled trees.
Can you use a chainsaw one-handed or above your head?: Not under SafeWork NSW’s Tree works code. Chainsaws, including top-handled ones, should not be operated one-handed, and should not be operated above shoulder height; the code says a pole saw may be used for small branches above shoulder height.
How long is a chainsaw course?: Courses listed on this site run one or two days. Only two listed providers publish a price: $388 and $655.