Do You Need a Tree Management Plan for Development?
A Tree Management Plan (TMP) is required where trees are retained or impacted by development.
Under the Victorian Planning Scheme, Council requires a TMP to demonstrate how trees will be protected both during Planning Permit assessment and throughout construction, in accordance with AS 4970 – Protection of Trees on Development Sites.
TMPs are typically required for:
- Planning Permit applications
- Development impacting Tree Protection Zones (TPZ)
- Sites with retained canopy trees
- Projects involving excavation, driveways or services near trees
Our AQF Level 5 Arborists prepare Tree Management Plans that support approval and construction compliance, ensuring your project proceeds without delays.
What Is a Tree Management Plan?
A Tree Management Plan is a combined planning and construction document that defines how trees will be protected from design through to project completion.
It translates arborist recommendations into practical, enforceable site controls.
A TMP typically includes:
- Tree Protection Zones (TPZ) and Structural Root Zones (SRZ)
- Protection fencing layout and specifications
- Ground protection measures
- Approved construction access zones
- No-go areas for excavation or storage
- Arborist supervision requirements
The plan ensures compliance with AS 4970 and protects trees throughout the entire development process.
Tree Protection Under AS 4970
- Establishing TPZ and SRZ based on trunk diameter
- Installing protective fencing prior to construction
- Preventing soil compaction within TPZ areas
- Restricting excavation near root systems
- Managing access to avoid structural damage
Failure to comply can result in tree decline, removal or breach of Planning Permit conditions.
Planning Permit vs Construction Stage
Planning Stage (Approval)
- Submitted with Planning Permit application
- Demonstrates tree protection strategy
- Supports Council decision-making
- Identifies constraints early
Construction Stage (Compliance)
- Implemented on site during works
- Controls access, excavation and protection zones
- Requires arborist supervision where specified
- Ensures trees are retained successfully
Both stages are critical for successful project delivery.
When TMPs Are Critical for Approval
- Trees are retained near buildings or infrastructure
- Construction encroaches into TPZ areas
- Basement or footing design impacts root zones
- Services or driveways are located near trees
- Coastal conditions increase environmental stress
Council often conditions Planning Permits requiring a TMP before works commence.
Common Tree Protection Failures
- Protection fencing incorrectly installed
- Encroachment into Tree Protection Zones
- Lack of arborist supervision during works
- Soil compaction within protected areas
- Unauthorised excavation near roots
- Failure to follow approved TMP
These failures commonly lead to tree loss and non-compliance.
Relationship to Clause 52.37
Clause 52.37 requires canopy trees to achieve long-term performance outcomes.
Tree Management Plans ensure trees are:
- Protected during construction
- Able to survive and establish
- Capable of reaching mature canopy size
TMPs work alongside:
Frequently Asked Questions
A TMP is required when trees are retained or impacted by development.
Council typically requires a Tree Management Plan as part of Planning Permit conditions where construction affects Tree Protection Zones or nearby vegetation.
It includes protection zones, fencing, access controls and supervision requirements.
A TMP outlines how trees will be protected throughout development, including TPZ/SRZ mapping, fencing, ground protection and arborist supervision.
A qualified AQF Level 5 Arborist prepares the TMP.
These plans must be prepared by experienced consulting arborists to ensure compliance with AS 4970 and Council requirements.
Non-compliance can result in tree damage, fines or enforcement action.
Failure to follow a TMP may lead to tree decline, removal or breach of Planning Permit conditions.
Local Development Context – Mornington Peninsula
Across Mornington, Mount Eliza, Mount Martha, Dromana and Somerville, Tree Management Plans are commonly required to support both Planning Permit approval and construction compliance.
In coastal areas such as Rosebud, Rye, Blairgowrie and Sorrento, environmental exposure and sensitive vegetation make proper tree protection essential.
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