Regulated Tree Reports
If you are planning to remove, prune or develop near a large tree on your property, there is a good chance it may be classified as a regulated tree under your local council’s planning policy. Before any works can begin, you may need a formal arborist report to support a development application.
At Asset Tree Care, our qualified arborists prepare professional regulated tree reports that meet council requirements across Mandurah, Perth and surrounding local government areas. We assess your tree, document our findings and provide a report that gives you the best chance of a smooth approval process.
What Is a Regulated Tree?
A regulated tree is a living tree that meets specific size or species criteria set out under your local council’s planning policy. Under the WALGA Model Local Planning Policy for Tree Retention, which many Perth and Peel region councils have adopted or are in the process of adopting, a regulated tree is generally defined as a tree that meets one or more of the following thresholds:
- Height of 8 metres or more
- Average canopy diameter of 6 metres or more
- Trunk circumference of 1.5 metres or more, measured 1.4 metres above ground level
- Not listed on a State or local area weed register
Councils including the City of Fremantle, City of South Perth and City of Bayswater have adopted policies aligned with this model. The City of Mandurah also operates Tree Preservation Areas, where any tree over 3 metres in height requires permission before works can proceed.
Because thresholds and exemptions vary between local government areas, it is important to check with your council or speak with a qualified arborist before carrying out any tree works on your property.
When Do You Need a Regulated Tree Report?
A regulated tree report, also known as an arborist report or tree condition assessment, is typically required when you submit a development application (DA) to your local council. Common situations where a report may be needed include:
- Removing or significantly pruning a tree that meets regulated size thresholds
- Developing, subdividing or building on a property where regulated trees are present
- Seeking approval to carry out works in a Tree Preservation Area
- Applying for retrospective approval for tree works already completed
If you are unsure whether your tree or proposed works require council approval, we can carry out an initial assessment and advise you on the correct process.
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Frequently Asked Questions
A regulated tree is a living tree that meets size thresholds set out under your local council’s planning policy. Across many Perth and Peel region councils, this typically means a tree that is 8 metres or more in height, has a canopy diameter of 6 metres or more, or has a trunk circumference of at least 1.5 metres. Exact thresholds can vary between local government areas.
If the tree meets your council’s definition of a regulated tree, you will generally need to submit a development application before any removal or major pruning can take place. Most councils require a formal arborist report to support that application.
Many Perth metropolitan councils have adopted or are developing tree retention policies based on the WALGA Model Local Planning Policy. These policies require development approval for the removal or significant pruning of regulated trees on private land. Policy details differ between councils, so it is worth confirming the requirements with your local LGA or speaking with a qualified arborist.
Timeframes depend on the complexity of the assessment and the size of the site. For most residential properties, we can carry out the inspection and deliver a report within a few business days. We will give you a clear timeframe when you book your consultation.
Yes. We work with residential homeowners, property developers, strata managers and commercial clients across Mandurah and the Perth region. We can manage the reporting process from initial assessment through to council submission support.
“Hamish and his team did a fabulous job removing some trees in our yard, including a very large and challenging tree. They were friendly, helpful, and thorough. Communication was always very prompt. We were very pleased with what a great job they did and how tidy they left the yard after they had completed the job. We would highly recommend them to anyone needing tree pruning or removal.”
Sydney Roberts
Tree Removal
Ready To Get Started?
Need a compliant arborist report for your council submission? Contact Asset Tree Care today for professional, accurate regulated tree reports across Mandurah, Perth and surrounding LGAs.
Call Hamish on 0490 762 201
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Asset Tree Care | Mandurah’s trusted regulated tree report specialists.
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