Arboricultural Survey (Tree Survey & AIA)

BS 5837 Tree Surveys, Arboricultural Impact Assessments and Tree Constraints Plans for Planning

An Arboricultural Survey (Tree Survey) identifies trees on and near a development site and evaluates their quality, constraints and retention potential. For planning applications, surveys are commonly required to BS 5837 and are used to create a Tree Constraints Plan (TCP) and an Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) that demonstrates how design protects retained trees and integrates appropriate mitigation. A robust arboricultural package reduces planning delays, supports condition discharge and prevents costly redesign caused by late-stage tree constraints.

When an Arboricultural Survey or AIA Is Required

Arboricultural assessment is typically required where:

• Planning validation requirements request a BS 5837 tree survey and constraints plan
• Trees may be affected by demolition, excavation, services, access roads or building footprints
• Trees are protected by a TPO or are within a conservation area
• Tree retention is a planning priority and design needs evidence-led constraints mapping
• Construction methodology needs an Arboricultural Method Statement (AMS) and protection plan for condition discharge

Purpose of a Tree Survey and AIA

The purpose is to provide defensible evidence so trees are considered early, impacts are reduced through design, and retained trees are protected properly during construction. A good arboricultural package supports planning decisions, reduces objections and provides clear site controls to prevent root damage and tree decline.

What a BS 5837 Tree Survey Typically Includes

• Tree identification, category grading and condition assessment
• Measurements (including stem diameter, height and canopy spread as required)
• Root Protection Area (RPA) calculation and constraints mapping
• Tree Constraints Plan (TCP) to inform design and layout
• Recommendations on retention, removals and design constraints

Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) and Method Statement

Where trees may be affected, an AIA typically includes. Where construction governance is broader, arboriculture often links into Construction Environmental Management Plans (CEMP).

• Impact assessment (direct and indirect impacts on trees and RPAs)
• Design mitigation (layout changes, no-dig construction, service routing, boundary design)
• Tree Protection Plan (TPP) and protection measures during works
• Arboricultural Method Statement (AMS) where required for planning conditions
• Site monitoring recommendations during construction where appropriate

Standards, Guidance and Regulatory Context

Arboricultural assessments commonly align to BS 5837: Trees in relation to design, demolition and construction, Tree Preservation Orders and trees in conservation areas, and Arboricultural Association industry guidance and good practice.

What the Service Delivers

• BS 5837 tree survey schedule and Tree Constraints Plan (TCP)
• Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) suitable for planning submission
• Tree Protection Plan (TPP) and Arboricultural Method Statement (AMS) where required
• Clear mitigation recommendations to protect retained trees and reduce planning risk
• Condition discharge support where tree protection measures must be evidenced

What We Need From You

• Site boundary/red line plan and proposed layout (if available)
• Programme and any known constraints (access, demolition, service routes)
• Planning validation requirements or condition wording (if applicable)
• Any known TPO/conservation area information (or we can help confirm)