Clause 52.37 arborist reports assess how development or tree removal may affect canopy trees on residential land in Victoria. These reports are commonly required when submitting planning permits or removing regulated canopy trees.
At Arbor Express Victoria, our AQF Level 5 Consulting Arborists prepare Clause 52.37 arborist reports for planning permits, development applications and tree removal approvals across Victoria.
With 32+ years of arboricultural experience, our reports meet Victorian Planning Provisions and AS 4970 requirements, ensuring councils receive clear and compliant arboricultural documentation.
A Clause 52.37 arborist report is a professional tree assessment required when development or tree removal affects canopy trees on residential land in Victoria.
Councils use these reports to determine whether trees should be retained, protected during construction or approved for removal.
Clause 52.37 of the Victorian Planning Provisions came into effect on 15 September 2025 to protect Victoria’s urban tree canopy while allowing appropriate development.
Most development applications affecting canopy trees require a Level 5 arborist report to support the planning permit.
Trees meeting these thresholds may require a planning permit supported by an arborist report before removal or major pruning. Additional planning overlays or council tree controls may also apply.
Most councils require an AQF Level 5 arborist report to assess the impact of development on trees.
Development proposals often involve building close to boundary trees or neighbouring canopy trees.
Where construction occurs within a Tree Protection Zone (TPZ), councils typically require an arborist report to assess:
In many cases, the arborist report helps planners determine whether development can proceed without removing regulated canopy trees.
These reports provide the technical evidence councils require when assessing planning permits involving trees.
When development or tree removal affects canopy trees on residential land.
Arborist reports are commonly required when submitting planning permits, removing large trees or constructing near canopy trees.
Trees over 5 metres tall, with a canopy wider than 4 metres and a trunk circumference greater than 0.5 metres.
Clause 52.37 protects canopy trees that contribute to Victoria’s urban forest.
Yes. Most development applications affecting canopy trees require a Level 5 arborist report.
Councils require arborist reports assessing tree health, size and development impacts.
Yes. Arbor Express provides fast-track arborist reports across Victoria.
Fast-track reporting helps planners, architects and builders meet planning deadlines.
Contact us today for fast, council-compliant arborist reports for planning permits, development applications and tree removal permits.
Our Level 5 arborists prepare Clause 52.37 arborist reports across Melbourne and Victoria, helping planners, architects, builders and property owners obtain planning approval.
