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Other arborist reports

Aerial or canopy inspection report

An aerial inspection of the upper trunk and branches of a tree is recommended if decay or poor branch formation is evident or suspected and there is a documented history of branch failure.

The findings of the aerial tree inspection together with photographs are to be included in an arborist report. The report and recommendations must be prepared by an arborist with a minimum qualification of AQF 5 level.

Root mapping report

Root mapping is the locating and plotting of a tree’s roots to determine the size and direction of root growth.

A trench is excavated along a determined line to a specified depth, usually by hand or with the assistance of a hydraulic water or air knife. Any exposed roots must have their location, depth and size and diameter recorded. No roots are to be severed and general root disturbance must be minimised. The excavated soil must be replaced promptly.

The results of the excavation are then analysed to determine the impact that a proposed building/infrastructure/services placement may have on the structural stability or long term health of the tree/s. These results must then be collated and presented in report form and include:

• A site plan showing the line, length and width of excavation; exact location of tree/s and proposed buildings/structures or underground services.
• Photographs of the excavation lines clearly showing their location and orientation on the site plan and close up shots of trenches with an article to show scale.
• Findings from the results of excavation detailing exact location, depth and size/diameter of roots and their condition; soil profile; and presence of pipes etc.

A root mapping report may be an addition to an arborist report or a separate report. The report must be prepared by an arborist with a minimum qualification of AQF 5 level.

Tree hazard assessment

If a tree is considered potentially hazardous the applicant may submit a tree hazard assessment. This additional information is to be submitted as part of an arborist report and is to include:

• Details of the particular hazard e.g. structural or other defects (termite or borer damage)
• Supporting evidence from an aerial inspection; resistograph or tomographic report
• What hazard rating system was applied and the rating for each tree
• How the hazard could be abated

Tree transplant method statement

If a tree is proposed to be re-located on site, a report must be submitted with the application outlining the methods of transplantation. Council may also stipulate during assessment of any application that a tree be re-located and a statement be prepared.

The statement must include:

1. A site plan
2. A timetable of works
3. Details of site preparation including minimising damage to adjacent vegetation
4. Transplantation method e.g. machinery to be used; excavation techniques; rootball and crown treatments and stabilisation measures
5. Storage on or off site; details of monitoring and tree care
6. Program of monitoring: during transplant process; after care and maintenance stages.

The statement must be prepared by an arborist with a minimum qualification of AQF 5 level

Tree monitoring report

Where required or as listed in a development condition, the site/project arborist may be asked to provide monitoring or maintenance reports to assess the health and condition of trees on development sites.

The timing and duration of the reports will be determined according to the likely impact of construction works on the trees to be retained or the maintenance period for newly planted trees or impacted trees.