When Do You Need an Arborist Report in Sydney?

If you’re planning construction, subdivision, landscaping or tree lopping in Sydney, you may hear mention of an arborist report. But what is it, and when do you really need one? In this guide, we’ll explain exactly when to get an arborist report in Sydney, what it includes, and how it helps both homeowners and developers.

What Is an Arborist Report?

An arborist report (also called a tree assessment or tree management report) is a formal, written document prepared by a licensed arborist. It evaluates the health, structure, and risk of existing trees on a property. It typically includes:

Tree species, size, and condition

Structural defects and risk assessments

Recommendations for pruning, remediation, or removal

Protection zones and root impact zones

Compliance with local council tree policies

An arborist report isn’t only about tree removal — it’s often required for tree preservation, council approvals, and safe development work.

When You Usually Need an Arborist Report in Sydney

Here are the common scenarios where an arborist report becomes essential:

1. Plans for Tree Removal or Tree Lopping

If you're removing or lopping trees—especially mature or protected ones—most Sydney councils will ask for an arborist report to justify the work. If you’re considering tree removal in Sydney, having a thorough arborist report strengthens your application.

2. Development Applications (DAs) & Building Work

For new builds, extensions, or subdivisions, tree impact assessments are often mandatory. An arborist report helps you show compliance with tree protection zones and council guidelines.

3. When Trees Are Inside Protection Zones

Many councils designate specific “tree protection zones” around significant trees. If your planned works fall within those zones, you’ll need an arborist report to show whether you can proceed safely.

4. Safety & Risk Concerns

If a tree is diseased, structurally unstable, or near structures or powerlines, an arborist report can assess the risk. In some cases, emergency tree removal is recommended, and you’ll need documentation to support that.

5. Strata, Commercial, or Council Projects

Properties under strata or council control often need arborist reports when managing shared tree assets. If you’re dealing with a strata project or commercial site, these reports help in demonstrating due diligence and compliance.

What’s Included in an Arborist Report?

Depending on the job, your report may cover:

• Tree inventory and species
• Health assessment and structural defects
• Root and canopy impact zones
• Recommended tree management (pruning, trimming, removal)
• Tree retention strategies
• Protection during construction
• Photographs and site maps
• Compliance with local council tree policies

How to Choose a Licensed Arborist in Sydney

When seeking an arborist report, look for:

• Proper qualifications (e.g. AQF Level 5 arborist)
• Insurance & public liability cover
• Local experience with Sydney council arboricultural policies
• Ability to produce clear, council-compliant reports

At GDE Tree Services Sydney, our certified arborists regularly prepare reports for DA submissions, risk assessments, and tree management plans — whether you’re in Eastern Suburbs, Sutherland Shire, Inner West, Parramatta, or anywhere across Sydney.

Benefits of Having an Arborist Report Before Work Begins

• Council approval & reduced delays
• Protection of significant trees
• Clear scope for contractors
• Better cost estimation & fewer surprises
• Lower risk of damage, especially around structures or roots

How GDE Can Help You with Arborist Reports

We offer full arborist report services as part of our broader tree offerings, including:

• Tree removal & tree lopping Sydney(all sizes)
• Tree pruning & tree trimming Sydney
• Stump grinding & tree stump removal Sydney
• Palm tree removal Sydney
• Land clearing Sydney
• Emergency tree services Sydney
• Commercial & strata tree work

Whether you’re working on a DA, facing tree management questions, or planning a major property renovation, we’re here to assist in Sydney, Blacktown, Liverpool, Campbelltown, and across all our service areas.