AQF Level 5 arborist reports.
Reports for council permits, planning applications, tree protection plans, VCAT submissions and insurance claims. Written by AQF Level 5 (Diploma of Arboriculture) qualified arborists.
Permits, planning, protection, insurance, dispute.
An arborist report is the formal written assessment of a tree or group of trees, prepared by a qualified arborist for submission to council, a planner, an insurer, or a court. The most common triggers are: removal of a canopy tree regulated under Clause 52.37, construction within the tree protection zone (TPZ) of a protected tree, planning permit applications on properties affected by a Vegetation Protection Overlay or similar, and insurance claims following storm damage.
On 15 September 2025 Clause 52.37 introduced a state permit trigger for qualifying canopy trees in specified residential zones and site situations. It can operate alongside overlays and other controls. Eligible complete applications may use VicSmart, but another permit trigger can change the pathway. A report relying on tree health or stability needs to address the actual tree, property and decision criteria.
Reports issued by Hilly's Trees & Landscapes are written by an AQF Level 5 arborist. AS 4970 is applied to development-site tree protection where relevant, and AS 4373 informs pruning specifications where pruning is within scope. The report structure and attachments are matched to the purpose of the assessment and the responsible authority's published requirements.
Priced by scope, not by tree count.
Single-tree removal reports are straightforward. Multi-tree planning reports for development sites take longer.
These are Hilly's indicative ranges, not industry averages or a property-specific quote. Access, condition, equipment, approvals, disposal and the final scope can change the price.
Development sites with TPZ assessments, encroachment calcs, and a planting plan if needed.
- AS4970 compliant
- Site plan drawings
- Council pre-lodgement check
Rush turnaround (2 business days from site visit) available for an extra fee.
The standard process.
You call
Tell us which council, what you're trying to achieve, and when the planner needs it. We'll book the site visit.
Site visit
AQF Level 5 arborists walk the property, measure, photograph, and assess every relevant tree.
Report drafted
The report addresses the purpose, relevant controls, evidence and applicable standards. Most standard reports are issued in 5 to 7 business days.
Lodged with council
We submit through the council's planning portal or hand it to your planner or builder. Your call.
Reports matched to the responsible authority.
Information requirements vary with the council, planning control and type of application. We confirm the responsible authority and current published requirements before the report scope is agreed.
Regular work across Melbourne's east, south east, bayside and north.
The questions we get most.
Related services.
Tree Removal
Tree assessment, removal method, access, permit assumptions and clean-up set out in writing before work is scheduled. Regular service across Melbourne and $20M public liability.
Learn more
For Builders + Developers
Pre-construction arborist reports, approved tree removals, site clearing and tree protection-zone work coordinated against the planning permit and build program.
Learn more
Land Clearing
Tree removal, vegetation clearance, stump grinding and mulching on residential blocks and development sites. The property controls, retained vegetation and handover condition are agreed before work starts.
Learn moreBook a site visit.
Send the address, photographs and the work you are considering. We will confirm whether a site visit is needed and provide the scope and price in writing.