Council-Compliant Tree Protection Plans for Development and Construction
This service provides Tree Protection Plans aimed at ensuring trees are retained and protected as part of new development, building works and associated construction activities within The Hills Shire Council area.
Tree Protection Plans are required where trees are to be retained, protected or managed during development and construction works and are commonly imposed as a condition of consent under Development Application (DA) or Complying Development Certificate (CDC) approvals.
These plans outline when tree protection measures are required, how Tree Protection Zones and Structural Root Zones are established, and what site controls must be implemented to comply with AS 4970 Protection of Trees on Development Sites and The Hills Shire Council vegetation controls.
What Is a Tree Protection Plan?
A Tree Protection Plan is a formal arborist document that defines how retained trees must be protected before, during and after construction.
- Identification of trees to be retained
- TPZ and SRZ calculations in accordance with AS 4970
- Tree protection fencing locations
- No-go zones and exclusion areas
- Approved construction methods near trees
- Site access and storage restrictions
- Arborist supervision or certification requirements where applicable
When Should Tree Protection Be Considered in a Development?
- Trees are proposed to be retained on or adjacent to the site
- Construction works may occur within a TPZ or SRZ
- Excavation, footings, services or driveways are proposed near trees
- Council or certifier conditions require documented tree protection measures
Early consideration helps avoid redesign, approval delays and non-compliance during construction.
Tree Protection Zones and Structural Root Zones
All Tree Protection Plans include accurate TPZ and SRZ mapping prepared in accordance with AS 4970. TPZ and SRZ information is commonly overlaid onto architectural or engineering drawings to ensure clarity and compliance during construction.
Tree Protection Fencing and Site Controls
- Type and location of tree protection fencing
- Signage requirements
- Ground protection methods, including mulch and load-distribution mats
- Restrictions on storage, vehicle access and excavation
- Sequencing requirements for construction works
Failure to install or maintain tree protection measures may result in stop-work orders, enforcement action or penalties under The Hills Shire Council controls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Tree Protection Plan?
A Tree Protection Plan sets out how retained trees must be protected during development and construction.
It defines TPZs, SRZs, fencing, exclusion areas and construction controls required to protect trees in accordance with AS 4970 and Council conditions.
When is a Tree Protection Plan required for a development?
A Tree Protection Plan is required where retained trees may be impacted by development works.
Plans are typically required where works occur within a TPZ or SRZ, where trees are retained under a DA or CDC, or where Council or certifier conditions apply.
Are Tree Protection Plans required for both DA and CDC approvals?
Yes. Tree Protection Plans may be required under both DA and CDC approvals.
Where trees are retained or impacted, Council or private certifiers commonly require Tree Protection Plans as a condition of consent or certification.
Are Tree Protection Plans accepted by The Hills Shire Council?
Yes. Tree Protection Plans prepared by Level 5 Arborists are accepted by Council.
All plans comply with AS 4970 and The Hills Shire Council vegetation controls and are suitable for Council and certifier review.
Can Tree Protection Plans be added to DA or construction drawings?
Yes. Tree Protection Plans are commonly integrated into development and construction drawings.
TPZ, SRZ and fencing details are overlaid onto architectural or engineering plans to provide clear on-site guidance.
What happens if Tree Protection Plans are not followed on site?
Failure to follow Tree Protection Plans may result in compliance action.
Non-compliance can lead to stop-work orders, fines, enforcement action or construction delays.
Request a Tree Protection Plan for Your Development
Engage a Level 5 Arborist to prepare a Council-compliant Tree Protection Plan that supports your DA or CDC approval and ensures construction works proceed without compliance issues.
Our Tree Protection Plans are clear, practical and aligned with AS 4970 and The Hills Shire Council vegetation controls, providing certainty for builders, designers and property owners throughout every stage of development. Contact us today.
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