BS 5837 Reports for Planning Applications

Our Three-Stage BS 5837 Survey Process

At Canopy IQ, we provide a structured approach to support your development from concept to completion. Each stage is meticulously designed to simplify the planning process, ensure full compliance with British Standard 5837:2012, and facilitate the sustainable integration of trees into your project.

Stage 1: Tree Survey, Constraints Report, and Constraints Plan – Pre-Application Stage

This foundational stage is critical for informing initial site feasibility and layout design, producing a working document that, while not required by the local authority, allows architects and developers to plan around potential conflicts from the very beginning.

• Detailed Site Survey: Our process begins with a comprehensive on-site tree survey, undertaken in accordance with BS 5837:2012. We methodically record the species, dimensions, age, and physiological and structural condition of each tree.

• Tree Categorisation: Each tree is assessed and assigned a retention value, categorising it based on its quality and life expectancy. This data is essential for understanding which trees should be prioritised for retention.

• Tree Constraints Report (TCR): Alongside the survey, we prepare a detailed Tree Constraints Report. This document includes a full schedule of tree data, records relevant site features, and identifies any Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) that apply. The TCR is a working document used to guide the design process; it is not a formal requirement of the Local Planning Authority.

• Tree Constraints Plan (TCP): We also produce a precise, scaled plan in AutoCAD that illustrates the location of each tree, its canopy spread, and, most importantly, its Root Protection Area (RPA). The RPA defines the essential below-ground constraint, or "no-go" zone, that must be safeguarded to ensure the tree’s long-term health.

Stage 2: Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) – Planning Application Submission

Once a design proposal has been developed, this stage provides a robust evaluation of its effect on the site’s existing trees; this assessment is often a required document for planning validation and demonstrates to the Local Planning Authority that tree impacts have been fully considered.

• Impact Evaluation: We conduct an in-depth assessment of how the proposed layout interacts with the trees identified for retention. This evaluation highlights any potential direct or indirect impacts, from incursions into the Root Protection Area (RPA) to longer-term pressures such as shading and dominance.

• Mitigation and Justification: Where conflicts are identified, we provide clear, professional advice and propose practical mitigation strategies. This may include design modifications or specific construction techniques to protect valuable trees.

• Supporting Planning Document: The final AIA provides a reasoned justification for any proposed tree removals and details the viability of retaining others. It forms a critical part of the planning submission, supporting compliance with BS 5837:2012 and demonstrating a responsible approach to tree stewardship.

Stage 3: Arboricultural Method Statement (AMS) & Tree Protection Plan (TPP) – Post-Approval / Pre-Commencement

Following planning consent, this final stage translates the approved plans into practical, on-site instructions for the construction phase, creating the detailed method statement which is often required to discharge a planning condition and ensure the long-term protection of retained trees.

• Arboricultural Method Statement (AMS): Local planning authorities frequently attach a requirement for an AMS as a planning condition. This condition must be formally discharged before development can commence. We prepare a detailed, site-specific AMS that sets out the precise working methods required to safeguard trees during demolition and construction. It includes specifications for protective barrier installation, ground protection measures, and the sequencing of any tree-related works.

• Tree Protection Plan (TPP): To accompany the AMS, we generate an updated, scaled TPP. This AutoCAD plan shows the exact location and specification of all protective fencing and ground protection. It provides contractors with clear, unambiguous instructions to ensure tree safeguards are implemented consistently and effectively on site.

Canopy IQ delivers clear, professional, and easy-to-understand reports. We pride ourselves on offering intelligent, site-specific solutions tailored for homeowners, developers, architects, and planning consultants. Our goal is to ensure full compliance, protect valuable trees, and contribute to the seamless progression of your project.