Understanding Arborist Reports: When and Why They're Needed in Melbourne
Whether you're planning a home renovation, removing a tree, or submitting a development application, an arborist report is often a necessary and valuable document. In Melbourne, particularly across the eastern and south eastern suburbs and the Dandenong Ranges, these reports are frequently requested by local councils and property managers to support decisions about vegetation management. At Multipoint Arboricultural, we specialise in preparing professional arborist reports in Melbourne that meet council requirements and help our clients navigate planning approvals with confidence.
This blog explains what arborist reports are, when they are needed, and why it’s important to engage a qualified arborist in Melbourne to prepare one. If you’re wondering whether your project needs a report, or what’s involved in the process, we’ve broken it all down here.
What Is an Arborist Report?
An arborist report is a formal document prepared by a qualified arborist that assesses the health, structure, and condition of a tree or multiple trees. These reports provide detailed observations and professional recommendations regarding pruning, removal, retention or protection.
Depending on the situation, an arborist report may include:
Tree species identification
Tree size, age and structural condition
Assessment of pests, disease or decay
Recommendations for pruning or removal
Impact of construction on nearby trees
Protection measures during development
Risk assessments for public safety
Compliance with council tree protection overlays
These reports must be completed by a suitably qualified arborist, typically holding a minimum Certificate Level 5 in Arboriculture, and must meet the standards expected by local planning authorities.
When Do You Need an Arborist Report in Melbourne?
There are several common scenarios where councils or other authorities will require an arborist report:
1. Planning or Building Applications
If you are submitting plans for a new build, extension, pool or subdivision, and your site contains protected or significant trees, your local council will likely request an arborist report. This allows the council to assess the impact of your project on existing trees and ensure appropriate management strategies are in place.
2. Tree Removal Permit Applications
In many suburbs, especially those in or near the Dandenong Ranges, tree removal is regulated under Vegetation Protection Overlays (VPOs) or Significant Landscape Overlays (SLOs). To apply for a removal permit, you'll often need an arborist report that justifies why removal is necessary.
3. Development in Bushfire Prone Areas
When developing land in bushfire-prone zones, councils and fire authorities may require vegetation assessments to support compliance with bushfire management overlays. An arborist report can help demonstrate how tree management will reduce fire risk while maintaining ecological values.
4. Insurance or Risk Assessments
If a tree is causing damage to property or poses a safety risk, insurers or property managers may request a formal arborist report to support claims, mitigation plans, or legal compliance.
5. Disputes Between Neighbours
Boundary tree disputes are common in suburban areas. An independent arborist report can help clarify whether a tree poses a risk, who is responsible for its care, and what steps should be taken.
6. Heritage or Protected Tree Management
If your property contains a heritage-listed tree or a tree of local ecological significance, any works involving that tree may require a report to ensure that best-practice management is followed.
What Information Is Included in an Arborist Report?
At Multipoint Arboricultural, our arborist reports are detailed, clear and tailored to the specific needs of your project. Depending on the scope, our reports typically include:
Site and tree location details (with maps or diagrams)
Tree species name (botanical and common name)
Height, canopy spread, trunk diameter and age estimate
Tree health and structural condition
Observed defects, disease or stress indicators
Impact of proposed works on the tree
Risk rating based on location and condition
Photographic evidence
Recommendations for retention, pruning or removal
Suggested protection measures during construction
Compliance with relevant council planning schemes
We ensure all information is aligned with AS 4970-2009 (Protection of Trees on Development Sites) and relevant local planning frameworks.
Why Choose Multipoint Arboricultural for Arborist Reports?
We understand that dealing with planning applications or tree removal permits can be stressful. At Multipoint Arboricultural, we simplify the process by offering:
Fast, professional service across Melbourne’s eastern and south eastern suburbs
Experienced arborists with AQF Level 5 qualifications
A strong understanding of local council planning controls
Easy-to-understand reports that meet approval standards
Honest, practical advice that protects both property and trees
Assistance with submitting documents to council if required
We’ve worked with private homeowners, developers, landscape architects, real estate agents and local councils, and we bring a clear, solutions-focused approach to every project.
Areas We Service
Our team provides arborist reports across:
Glen Waverley, Mount Waverley and Wheelers Hill
Ferntree Gully, Rowville, Boronia and The Basin
Dandenong, Hallam, Narre Warren and Cranbourne
Belgrave, Sassafras, Upwey and the wider Dandenong Ranges
Keysborough, Clyde North, Officer and surrounding suburbs
No matter the suburb or the size of the job, we are committed to helping you navigate your tree-related responsibilities with confidence.
How the Process Works
Contact Us – Get in touch to discuss your situation and provide any project details.
Site Visit – We’ll visit your property to inspect the relevant trees and gather data.
Report Preparation – Our arborist compiles a detailed report, including maps, assessments and recommendations.
Review and Submission – We send you the report for review and assist with council submission if needed.
Ongoing Support – We remain available to answer questions and support any follow-up work, including pruning, removal or protection.
When Should You Book an Arborist Report?
If you're planning any tree works or property changes in the coming months, book your arborist report early. Councils can take time to process permit applications, and delaying a report may push your project timeline back. By acting now, especially before spring’s busy growth period, you stay ahead of both seasonal demand and compliance requirements.
Book Your Arborist Report with Multipoint Arboricultural
If you're unsure whether you need a report or want to speak with a qualified arborist in Melbourne, our team is ready to assist. From small residential jobs to large-scale developments, we deliver reliable service, accurate reporting and practical tree care solutions.
Visit www.multipointarb.com to request a quote or book your arborist report today.
