Expertise and innovation in every BS5837 tree survey
At Arb Innovators, we don't just conduct BS5837 Tree Surveys for planning, or prepare Tree Constraints Plans (TCP) and Arboricultural Impact Assessments (AIA), we set the standard for them.
For over 15 years, we've been helping Homeowners, Architects And Developers across Nottinghamshire, the Midlands, and UK obtain planning consent, thanks to our arboricultural expertise and use of cutting-edge technology. We ensure your project not only meets, but exceeds, planning validation requirements.
Why Choose Arb Innovators for Your BS5837 Survey?
Expertise and Experience: With over a decade in arboriculture, we bring unmatched knowledge to every survey.
Innovative Technology: Utilising drones, photogrammetry, and AI, we deliver precise and efficient surveys, FAST!
Tailored Solutions: Every project is unique, and so is our approach. Our BS5837 surveys are designed to reduce the risk of costly delays or planning application refusals.
Ready to elevate your planning application?
As seasoned arboriculturists with over a decade of diverse arboricultural experience, we understand the critical role trees play in your project's success.
Our BS5837 tree surveys start from just £180.
Understanding BS5837 Tree Surveys: Your pathway to planning approval
Click the video below to watch a short BS5837:2012 explainer.
Created using Google AI Studio.
BS5837 tree surveys and reports:
The 4 key stages
A BS5837 Tree Survey and Report is an essential process for anyone planning construction or development where trees are present either within or adjacent to the proposed site. In deciding whether you need a survey or not, ask yourself:
Are you planning a commercial or housing development?
Preparing a detailed planning application for an extension or renovation at your property?
Are there trees on the site or within an influencing distance (typically 15 metres)?
HEAR WHAT OUR CLIENTS THINK
Why choose Arb Innovators?
After 15 years in the arboriculture sector our tree consultants have developed the experience needed to carry out a range of surveys and digital solutions tailored to your needs.
But we won't stop there. Arb Innovators was created with a single objective in mind: to enhance arboricultural consulting.
We have already assisted numerous outstanding clients since 2023. Those who have put their trust in us to provide innovative tree surveys, pragmatic Arboricultural advice and consultancy.
What you get with an Arb Innovators BS5837 tree survey and report
At Arb Innovators, we're not just conducting tree surveys; we're redefining them. Our pioneering approach integrates the latest in drone technology, photogrammetry, and artificial intelligence to bring you accuracy and insights that were once beyond reach.
This blend of cutting-edge technology and deep-rooted arboricultural expertise enables us to craft Arboricultural Impact Assessments and recommendations that are not only precise but also clear, concise and immediately actionable, ensuring successful and sustainable development.
NAVIGATING BS5837 TREE SURVEYS AND REPORTS WITH PRECISION AND EXPERTISE
What is BS5837?
The British Standard "Trees in Relation to Design, Demolition and Construction to Construction - Recommendations" (BS 5837) (2012) provides detailed guidelines for trees in relation to design, demolition, and construction. The purpose of a BS5837 Tree Survey for planning, and the associated plans and reports, are to identify the quality of trees on the site in accordance with the British Standard, and provide information on the above and below-ground constraints posed by their canopies and roots, to inform design and construction.
The latest version of BS5837, published in 2012, provides a methodology that applies to all trees within influencing distance of demolition or construction works, and when building near trees.
Local Authorities across the UK place a requirement on BS5837 Tree Surveys and Reports as part of their planning validation checklist to help ensure trees on or near to your proposed development are given adequate consideration.
The initial stage of the process is a Tree Survey, critical component for your planning applications. It is primarily intended to identify the constraints and opportunities presented by existing trees on your site or property. This stage is nearly always required to validate your planning application.
At Arb Innovators, we specialise in BS5837 Tree Surveys, ensuring your project aligns seamlessly with the most stringent requirements of local planning and environmental considerations.
Following the initial survey and depending on the type of planning application (outline or detailed), our arboricultural consultants will prepare an Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) or Arboricultural Method Statement and Tree Protection Plan. The AIA outlines the impacts of the proposed development and provides recommendations to ensure a harmonious balance between tree removal and retention. After 15 years in the industry, we've got a good grasp of what can reasonably be achieved, where the design of a scheme may need to be amended, and are pragmatic in our approach.
These are typically required at later design and planning stages, or may form part of supplementary information requested as planning conditions to any consent.
YOUR KEY BS5837 QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Is a BS5837 tree survey and AIA a legal requirement?
While not a legal requirement, a BS5837 Tree Survey is often essential for planning applications.
Local authorities frequently require these surveys to ensure that developments consider the impact on existing trees, aligning with environmental and sustainability goals.
We have over 15 years experience and expertise in providing tree surveys and reports for planning, having worked on large and small-scale household and commercial projects for a range of clients, across the UK.
How much does a BS5837 tree survey cost?
The cost of a BS5837 tree survey can vary greatly depending on several factors, such as the size of the site, the number of trees present, and the complexity of the survey.
Typically, for a small Site, the cost will be around £260 - £800. We offer competitive pricing for our BS5837 surveys and reports and always recommend contacting us for a free quote, so we can provide you with an accurate estimate based on your projects specific needs.
Why is a BS5837 survey needed for planning?
Most local authorities across the UK are explicit in their requirement that any planning application affecting trees must be accompanied by a survey completed in accordance with British Standard BS 5837:2012.
Your local council's planning department utilises a specific validation checklist to determine if a planning application can be registered. Failure to include any of the following technical components on this checklist can lead to immediate rejection or planning refusal.
When it comes to trees, your local authority will expect to see several documents and plans, notably a tree survey to BS5837:2012 along with an Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) technical report.
TYPICAL PLANNING VALIDATION CHECKLIST
Required Document
Technical Specification
Purpose for Planning
Topographical Survey
Accurately measured site features and levels.
Provides the base data for plotting tree positions and RPAs.
BS5837 Tree Survey
Identification of species, dimensions, BS5837 quality.
Categorises trees (A, B, C, or U) to determine retention value.
Tree Constraints Plan (TCP)
Mapping of canopies and Root Protection Areas (RPA).
Informs the design team of the physical constraints on site.
Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA)
Analysis of development impact on retained trees.
Evaluates whether the proposed layout is sustainable and compliant.
Tree Protection Plan (TPP)
Scaled drawing showing fencing and ground protection.
Demonstrates how trees will be physically protected during construction.
Arboricultural Method Statement (AMS)
Detailed methodology for works within sensitive areas.
Explains how construction operations will occur without damaging trees.
BS5837. Your questions answered.
We're sure you've got a lot of questions about BS5837:2012 and we're more than happy to answer them. Our mission is to help you understand BS5837 tree surveys and reports. Whilst we don't want you to get hung up on the details (that's our job) we feel arming you with knowledge helps reduce anxiety throughout the process.