What is a Post-Construction Tree Compliance Report?
A post-construction arborist report, also known as a tree compliance report, is an essential document prepared to confirm that trees have been managed and protected in accordance with approved plans and council requirements throughout a development.
This document verifies that Tree Protection Zones (TPZs) were maintained through construction and is part of the DA approval process in Sydney. Councils rely on this report as part of the tree compliance council sign-off process before issuing an Occupation Certificate (OC).
A post-construction arborist report includes a final site inspection to assess whether retained trees were impacted during works. The report gives councils evidence that the development has met all environmental and planning obligations.
When is it required?
A tree compliance report is mandated as part of DA conditions where tree protection measures have been implemented.
A tree inspection report is the final stage of the construction process:
- An AIA report is carried out to identify which trees may be impacted by a proposed development
- A Tree Protection Plan outlines what measures will be followed to ensure those trees are protected
- The post-construction tree compliance report verifies that the protected trees have been managed effectively and unharmed
Additional reporting is required by the local council when mature or heritage-listed trees are present. Councils require clear evidence that their long-term health and stability were not compromised during construction.
What does Arbor Pride inspect and document?
Before preparing the final report, Arbor Pride conducts a comprehensive on-site inspection. This includes assessing trees against the original Tree Protection Plan and DA conditions. We inspect all the retained trees and the protection measures used throughout development, along with evaluating the impact of construction activities.
Arbor Pride will assess and document:
- The overall conditions of the retained trees
- Any damage to trunks, root systems or canopies
- Confirmation that TPZs were maintained throughout the project
- The placement of tree protection fencing
- Signs of soil compaction
- Compliance with the approved Tree Protection Plan
- Photographic evidence of all of the above
The final document involves a complete arboricultural compliance report outlining whether the site meets council regulations. When all conditions have been met, the report is suitable for submission to support OC approval.
When required, we outline remedial actions or management plans to address non-compliance and minor damage. This may include pruning, soil treatment and ongoing monitoring to support tree recovery.
Who requests this report?
A post-construction arborist report is required by councils as part of DA conditions and aligns with AS4970 standards. It is a critical arborist report at the end of construction that supports final approvals and project completion.
It’s requested by:
- Builders and developers
- Architects and designers
- Project managers
- Property owners needing sign-off
Turnaround times
Post-construction tree-compliance reports are typically completed within 3-5 business days following final site inspection. Timeframes may vary depending on site size and project complexity. We prioritise fast delivery of every post-construction tree compliance report to support the tree compliance council sign-off process.
