Development & Construction Arborist Assessments

Practical arboricultural advice for projects involving trees

Planning a development near existing trees? Thrive Arbor provides independent arboricultural assessments and practical design advice to help manage tree-related constraints, support development applications and protect trees identified for retention.

Our AQF Level 5 consulting arborists work with property owners, architects, planners, builders and developers throughout the Clarence Valley, Coffs Coast and surrounding regions.

Arborist Services for Developments

• Preliminary arboricultural assessments and tree surveys

• Tree identification, measurement and condition assessment

• Tree retention value and suitability recommendations

• Notional Root Zone (NRZ) calculations under AS 4970:2025

• Arboricultural impact assessments

• Assessment of proposed root zone encroachments

• Advice on building placement, access and service locations

• Tree protection plans and specifications

• Construction monitoring and site inspections

• Project arborist certification and completion reporting

Early Advice Can Improve the Design

Engaging an arborist during the early planning stage can identify important trees and potential development constraints before the design is finalised.

Early arboricultural advice can help your project team:

• Make informed tree-retention decisions

• Position buildings and infrastructure more effectively

• Reduce unnecessary impacts on retained trees

• Identify where design changes or construction methods may be required

• Prepare the arboricultural documentation requested by council

• Avoid delays and unexpected tree-protection requirements later in the project

Accurate Tree Mapping and Clear Plans

We use survey-grade GNSS/GPS equipment to accurately collect and plot tree data. Where suitable, current drone orthomosaic imagery can also be produced to provide a clear and up-to-date representation of the site.

Tree locations, retention zones and proposed works can be incorporated into GIS mapping and project plans, providing clear information for designers, approval authorities and construction teams.

Arboricultural Impact Assessments for Council Submission

Where a proposed development may affect existing trees, you may be required to submit formal supporting documentation to council. we are qualified to prepare an Arboricultural Impact Assessment documenting:

• The trees present and their condition

• Retention value and suitability

• Relevant NRZ and SRZ requirements

• The extent and significance of proposed encroachments

• Likely impacts associated with construction

• Recommended design responses and mitigation measures

• Tree-protection requirements during construction

Our recommendations are evidence-based, proportionate and informed by practical experience working around trees in complex environments.

Tree Protection During Construction

Approval of a development is only the beginning. Thrive Arbor can remain involved as the project arborist to help ensure tree-protection requirements are implemented throughout construction.

This may include pre-start meetings, protection-zone inspections, supervision of excavation near trees, root investigations, construction monitoring and final certification.

Discuss Your Development

If you are planning to build, subdivide or undertake construction near trees, contact Thrive Arbor early. We can review your site, explain the arboricultural requirements and recommend the appropriate level of assessment for your project.

Servicing the Clarence Valley, Coffs Coast and surrounding regions.