Why Tree Reports Are Crucial for Safe Property Development

Everything you need to know before cutting, building, or planting near existing trees.

When planning a new development—whether it’s a home extension, commercial build, or multi-unit project—it’s easy to focus on blueprints, boundaries, and budgets. But what about the trees?

Many property owners and developers overlook one crucial step in the early planning phase: the Tree Report.

A tree report is more than just a list of trees on site. It’s a professional assessment that guides safe, legal, and sustainable development. Whether you're applying for council approval or simply want to avoid structural damage or costly delays, a tree report can make or break your project.

So why are tree reports so important for safe property development? Let’s unpack it.

Quick Overview: What You Need to Know About Tree Reports

Tree reports are essential documents prepared by qualified arborists to assess the condition, location, and significance of trees on or near a development site. These reports are often required by local councils to ensure responsible planning that protects both public safety and the environment.

Here’s why they matter:

• They help identify which trees can stay and which must go—legally.

• They prevent expensive structural damage from root systems or overhanging branches.

• They support smoother council approvals by meeting environmental regulations.

• They ensure public and worker safety during and after construction.

Want to dive deeper? Keep reading!

Section 1: What Is a Tree Report, Really?

A tree report is a detailed document typically prepared by a consulting arborist. It outlines the health, size, species, and significance of trees on or adjacent to a proposed development site. Most importantly, it provides recommendations for retention, removal, or protection measures.

Tree reports often include:

• Tree location mapping (with GPS or site plan overlay)

• Health and structural condition assessment

• Root protection zones (RPZ) and tree protection plans

• Risk ratings (for fall or failure potential)

• Recommendations for tree removal or retention

• Advice on construction impact and mitigation

Did You Know?
Some councils will reject your Development Application (DA) outright if a tree report is missing or incomplete—even if your build seems minor.

Section 2: Why Tree Reports Are Safety Tools, Not Just Red Tape

Tree reports aren’t just for ticking boxes—they help prevent real dangers.

How unsafe trees can impact development:

• Underground roots can lift foundations, crack retaining walls, or infiltrate plumbing.

• Overhanging branches pose serious risks to scaffolding, roofing, and workers.

• Diseased or unstable trees near property lines can collapse onto buildings or people.

• Ignorance of protected species can lead to hefty fines or legal battles.

Pro Tip:
If you’re working near mature eucalyptus, angophoras, or heritage-listed vegetation, a tree report isn’t optional—it’s a necessity for avoiding liability.

Section 3: Councils Love Tree Reports (Here’s Why You Should Too)

Most Australian councils require a tree report as part of the development approval process—especially if you're altering vegetation or working within certain proximity to protected trees.

What councils use tree reports for:

• Ensuring compliance with tree preservation orders and environmental legislation

• Guiding tree retention and planting requirements

• Assessing stormwater drainage impacts

• Protecting urban biodiversity and canopy cover

Quote from a Sydney Council planning officer:
“Tree reports give us the facts we need to protect both people and the environment. Without them, development decisions are blind.”

Section 4: What Happens If You Skip the Tree Report?

Skipping or shortcutting this step can be a costly mistake—both legally and financially.

Possible consequences include:

• DA rejection or major delays

• Fines for unauthorised tree removal (can exceed $10,000+)

• Construction redesigns or stoppages

• Safety incidents due to misjudged root zones or failing trees

• Disputes with neighbours or council

Bold truth: Cutting down or damaging a tree without proper reporting could jeopardise your entire build.

Quick Guide: How Tree Reports Keep Projects on Track (and Out of Trouble)

Picture This:

You’re planning a dual occupancy on a corner block with several mature trees. You’re eager to start but unsure which trees you can remove—or even if you’re allowed to.

Common Challenges:

• Can I remove that tree or is it protected?

• What if tree roots go under my future driveway?

• Will council delay my application over trees?

How to Solve It:

1.     Get a Tree Report Early: Bring in a qualified arborist before submitting your plans. It’ll save time, stress, and rework later.

2.     Plan Around Significant Trees: Tree reports help you position buildings and driveways away from sensitive root zones.

3.     Avoid Costly Fines: A tree report shows that you’ve done your due diligence—no surprises for you or council.

4.     Improve DA Success Rates: DA applications with detailed tree reports show that your development is environmentally responsible.

Why It Works:

With a thorough tree report, you can make confident planning decisions, address council requirements upfront, and avoid hidden risks lurking just beneath the soil.

Need help arranging a professional tree report? Let’s talk.

FAQs: Tree Reports and Development

Q1: Who can prepare a tree report?

Only a qualified consulting arborist (AQF Level 5 or higher) should prepare a tree report. Councils will often reject reports from unqualified assessors.

Q2: When in the planning process should I get a tree report?

Ideally before submitting your DA. Waiting too long can delay approvals or force redesigns if trees are deemed significant.

Q3: Is a tree report different from an arborist report?

They’re often used interchangeably, but a tree report is generally site-specific and tied to development outcomes, whereas an arborist report may focus more on health or risk assessments.

Q4: What’s the cost of a tree report?

It varies based on location, site size, and number of trees—usually starting around $300 to $800. Complex sites may cost more.

Q5: Can I remove a tree if it's dead or dangerous without a report?

Sometimes yes, but you should always check with your local council. Some require written confirmation or post-removal justification, especially for larger trees.

Conclusion: Build Smart, Build Safe—Start with a Tree Report

Tree reports are more than a tick-box requirement—they’re a key safety, legal, and environmental tool that protects your project from costly setbacks.

By investing in a professional tree report early, you’ll make smarter planning decisions, avoid fines, and demonstrate your commitment to responsible development.