Professional BS5837 Tree Surveys for Planning Applications

A BS5837 Tree Survey is a crucial requirement for any planning application where trees are present on or near a development site. Local planning authorities rely on this assessment to understand how your proposed works interact with existing trees, ensuring they are protected throughout the design and construction process. At Tree Survey Team, we provide detailed, fully compliant BS5837 surveys designed to streamline your planning application and prevent costly delays further down the line.
Our reports are clear, practical, and delivered quickly — helping you move forward with confidence.

What Is a BS5837 Tree Survey?

A BS5837 survey follows the British Standard “Trees in Relation to Design, Demolition and Construction – Recommendations.” This specialist survey evaluates every tree within influencing distance of your planned works and records key information needed for architects, planners, and contractors.

Key elements include:

  • Tree species, height, and diameter
  • Physiological and structural condition
  • Estimated remaining lifespan
  • Category grading (A, B, C, or U)
  • Root Protection Areas (RPAs)
  • Constraints affecting your design

This data forms the basis of a tree-conscious development plan, helping planners assess how your proposal can proceed while safeguarding important trees.

Why Is a BS5837 Survey Required?

Most planning authorities will not validate an application without a BS5837 survey if trees are involved. This ensures that developments are designed with appropriate consideration for tree health, safety, and long-term sustainability.
By carrying out the survey early in the process, you reduce the risk of design changes, delays, or objections later on.

A BS5837 survey helps to:

  • Demonstrate compliance with planning policy
  • Protect valuable or high-quality trees
  • Prevent accidental root and canopy damage
  • Provide clear guidance to architects and builders
  • Reduce risks and liabilities during construction

Ultimately, it gives the council confidence that your development will respect the natural landscape.

What Our BS5837 Survey Includes

At Tree Survey Team, we deliver a complete, planning-ready package that meets all BS5837:2012 requirements. Our consultants combine technical expertise with practical development knowledge, ensuring your project proceeds smoothly from planning to build.

Our service covers:

  • Tree Survey & Categorisation We assess every tree on site, recording measurements, condition, structural features, and category grading. This provides an accurate understanding of the site’s arboricultural value.
  • Tree Constraints Plan (TCP) A scaled plan showing RPAs, crown spreads, and tree positions. This is essential for your architect to design around tree constraints effectively.
  • Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) A detailed report explaining how your proposed development will affect the trees and what measures are needed to mitigate impacts. This document is commonly requested by planning case officers.
  • Arboricultural Method Statement (AMS) A practical, step-by-step guide detailing how works near trees must be carried out, including excavation methods, protection fencing, no-dig areas, and material storage zones.
  • Tree Protection Plan (TPP) A visual plan showing fencing layouts, access routes, and restricted zones. This helps contractors understand exactly how tree protection must be implemented on-site.

Who Needs a BS5837 Tree Survey?

BS5837 surveys are required wherever development takes place near trees, whether it’s a small residential extension or a large commercial project. Councils assess trees both within the site boundary and those located on neighbouring land.

This service is essential for:

  • Home extensions and renovations
  • Single new-build projects
  • Housing developments
  • Commercial construction
  • School and council works
  • Demolition and change-of-use applications

If trees are visible on or near your site, the planning authority is almost certain to request this survey.

Fast Turnaround & Planning-Compliant Reporting

We understand how critical timing is in the planning process. Delays can be expensive, stressful, and disruptive. That’s why Tree Survey Team offers a fast, efficient service from the moment you make contact.
Our team provides quick site visits, swift report turnaround, and responsive communication throughout, ensuring your planning submission progresses without unnecessary obstacles.

With us, you benefit from:

  • Rapid scheduling and reporting
  • CAD-ready plans for architects
  • Clear and practical recommendations
  • Professional support throughout planning
  • Competitive pricing without compromising quality

We work closely with homeowners, developers, planning consultants, and architects to deliver reliable and actionable tree data.

Why Choose Tree Survey Team for BS5837 Surveys?

Choosing the right tree survey provider can make a significant difference to the success of your planning application. At Tree Survey Team, we prioritise accuracy, clarity, and fast delivery — backed by professional arboricultural expertise.

Our advantages include:

  • Qualified arboricultural surveyors
  • Fully BS5837:2012 compliant reports
  • Practical, development-friendly advice
  • Nationwide coverage
  • Trusted by architects, developers, and homeowners
  • Same-day quotes available

We don’t just identify constraints — we help you find workable solutions.

Get a BS5837 Tree Survey Quote

Whether you’re planning an extension, new build, or commercial development, we can provide the survey you need quickly and professionally.

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