Melbourne · Planning support

Clause 52.37 arborist reports, built around the actual property

Clause 52.37 changed Victoria's planning rules for qualifying canopy trees on 15 September 2025. The answer depends on the property, tree measurements, position and proposed work—not a single yes-or-no rule.

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A defensible process

The right advice starts with the right question

1. Property-control review

Confirm the zone, mapped overlays and relevant council requirements. Clause 52.37 does not replace every other control.

2. Site and tree assessment

Record the tree measurements, position, condition, surrounding targets and the exact work being considered.

3. Written support

Prepare the report and supporting evidence the application actually needs, with limitations and the decision-maker made clear.

What the clause tests

A tree must meet all three canopy-tree measurements

  • More than 5 metres high
  • Trunk circumference more than 0.5 metres at 1.4 metres above ground
  • Canopy diameter of at least 4 metres

Those measurements are only one part of the test. The planning zone, whether the lot is vacant or has a dwelling, the trunk's position and the proposed work also matter. Exact exemptions can apply.

Common questions

Clause 52.37 and arborist reports

No. Clause 52.37 has zone, tree-measurement, lot-position and work tests, plus exclusions and exemptions. All three canopy-tree measurements must be met. Other controls can still apply even when Clause 52.37 does not.

The application must include the information required by the clause. Where tree health or structural stability is relied upon, the clause calls for an assessment by a suitably qualified person. Council may request further information depending on the proposal and other controls.

We can review the available controls, inspect and measure the tree, explain the likely pathway and prepare supporting information. Council remains the decision-maker, so no adviser can guarantee approval.

Send the address, photographs showing the whole tree and its position on the property, the work you are considering, and any planning or council correspondence you already have.

Information reviewed 28 July 2026. Read the Victorian Government canopy-tree guidance. This page is general information, not a permit or legal advice.

Request a Clause 52.37 assessment

Send the property address, tree photographs and the work you are considering. We will confirm whether a site assessment and report are the right next step.

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