Council-Compliant Tree Protection Plans (AS 4970)
Tree Protection Plans are required to ensure trees are retained, protected and properly managed during development, building works and construction activities across the Lake Macquarie City Council area.
They are commonly imposed as a condition of consent under a Development Application or Complying Development Certificate where trees are retained or may be impacted by construction.
Our local Level 5 Arborists prepare Council-ready Tree Protection Plans in accordance with AS 4970 Protection of Trees on Development Sites, ensuring plans are clear, enforceable and practical on site.
Tree Protection Plans operate alongside:
- Arborist Reports
- DA Tree Reports for Property Owners
- Arborist Reports for Builders and Architects
- Project Arborist supervision during construction
What Is a Tree Protection Plan?
A Tree Protection Plan sets out how retained trees must be protected during construction and defines site controls that builders and contractors must follow.
A typical Tree Protection Plan includes:
- Identification of trees to be retained
- TPZ and SRZ calculations in accordance with AS 4970
- Tree protection fencing locations and specifications
- No-go zones and exclusion areas
- Approved construction methods near trees
- Site access, excavation and material storage restrictions
- Arborist supervision or certification requirements
When Should Tree Protection Be Considered?
Tree protection measures should be considered where:
- Trees are proposed to be retained on or adjacent to the site
- Works occur within a Tree Protection Zone or Structural Root Zone
- Excavation, footings or services are proposed near trees
- Council or certifier conditions require tree protection measures
- Construction staging may impact retained vegetation
Tree Protection Zones (TPZ) & Structural Root Zones (SRZ)
All Tree Protection Plans include accurate TPZ and SRZ mapping prepared in accordance with AS 4970. These zones are clearly calculated, scaled correctly and overlaid onto architectural or engineering drawings so all site personnel understand where work is permitted and where it is not.
Tree Protection Fencing and Site Controls
- Type and location of tree protection fencing
- Signage requirements
- Ground protection methods
- Restrictions on storage, vehicle access and excavation
- Sequencing requirements for construction works
Relationship to Project Arborist Services
Where Tree Protection Plans form part of development consent conditions, Council commonly requires Project Arborist supervision, site inspections during works within TPZs or SRZs, and compliance certification at key construction stages.
In these cases, Tree Protection Plans establish the rules, while Project Arborist services manage how those rules are applied on site.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Tree Protection Plan?
A Tree Protection Plan sets out how retained trees must be protected during construction in line with AS 4970.
When is a Tree Protection Plan required?
A Tree Protection Plan is required when retained trees may be impacted by development works or where Council or certifier conditions apply.
Are Tree Protection Plans required for DA and CDC approvals?
Yes. They may be required under both DA and CDC approvals where trees are retained.
Are Tree Protection Plans accepted by Council?
Yes, when prepared by Level 5 Arborists and compliant with AS 4970.
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Contact us today for Council-compliant Tree Protection Plans prepared by Level 5 Arborists, supporting DA and CDC approvals across the Lake Macquarie Council area.
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