The Importance of Preliminary Tree Assessments for Property Owner

The preliminary tree assessment provides information and data as a guide for the layout of a proposed development, including recommendations to retain or remove existing trees.

The earliest stages of development planning are when a preliminary tree assessment is most effective, prior to the proposed development application. The preliminary tree assessment provides base arboricultural data and information to guide the layout of the development. A preliminary tree assessment is usually carried out prior to a development application around the same time the site survey is undertaken.

The two stages of a preliminary tree assessment

 

The first stage comprises of numbering, mapping and capturing vital tree data within the site. This data includes:

  • Allocation of tree number
  • Identification of genus and species
  • Dimensions of the tree i.e height, canopy width, trunk diameter at breast height (DBH) and trunk diameter at base (DAB)
  • Protection zones: Tree protection zone (TPZ) and structural root zone (SRZ)
  • Tree health and structural integrity
  • Age classification of the tree
  • Tree significance to the site
  • Useful Life Expectancy (ULE)
  • Retention value of the tree

Preliminary Tree Assessment Report

 

The second stage of the preliminary tree assessment consists of using the data captured on site to collate a detailed preliminary tree assessment report. The information contained within a preliminary tree assessment report is used by planners, architects, and designers, in conjunction with any planning controls and other legislation, to develop the design layout in such a way that trees selected for retention are provided with enough space to remain viable.

The tree retention value will assist in prioritising which trees should be retained and protected, while the tree protection zone and structural root zones will provide the necessary offsets to protect those individual trees.

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