As you're likely aware, obtaining approval for development projects involves navigating various regulations and requirements, especially concerning tree preservation and environmental impact assessments. AIAs play a crucial role in ensuring that your project complies with these regulations, streamlining the approval process and minimising delays.
AIAs provide comprehensive insights into the impact your project will have on the surrounding trees and environment. By demonstrating a clear understanding of these impacts and presenting mitigation strategies, AIAs significantly increase the likelihood of obtaining development approval from regulatory authorities.
Trees are valuable assets on any property, offering aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits. AIAs help identify significant trees that should be preserved during the development process, ensuring they remain a cherished part of your landscape and adding value to your property.
Identifying potential risks associated with tree management early on is essential for ensuring the safety of workers, residents, and neighbouring properties. AIAs help identify and address these risks, minimising the likelihood of accidents, property damage, or legal disputes.
In today's environmentally conscious world, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability is increasingly important. AIAs showcase your dedication to responsible environmental practices by preserving existing trees and implementing sustainable tree management strategies.
Partnering with experts who prioritise your project's success and safety builds trust and enhances your reputation.
An Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) is a crucial report often mandated when a development project proposes to disturb trees. With local councils increasingly emphasising tree retention in urban areas, many now require independent assessments to gauge the potential impacts of proposed developments.
Arboricultural Impact Assessments serve to quantify the number and value of trees slated for removal, while also delineating those that will be affected but deemed suitable for retention. Additionally, they provide guidance on managing tree protection throughout the construction process. The assessment is founded on AS4970 Protection of Trees on Development Sites standards, supplemented by the consultant’s expertise.
A comprehensive understanding of building and construction is vital for formulating specifications regarding tree retention. Our principal consultant at Assurance Trees holds qualifications as a builder, coupled with extensive experience in the construction industry, ensuring thorough and informed assessments.
Construction near tree roots or canopy may necessitate an AIA.
Protected trees on your site could require an AIA.
Some councils mandate AIAs based on tree size or project scale.
Development in sensitive areas may need an AIA for vegetation impact assessment.
If stakeholders express concerns, an AIA may be required.
Engage with arborists during the conceptual phase to identify tree impacts and incorporate protection measures.
Arborists conduct an initial assessment to identify affected trees, informing layout decisions to minimize impact.
Detailed evaluation of tree impacts, including removal needs, protection during construction, and retention strategies.
AIA findings are integrated into development plans and DA submissions for review by authorities.
Approved plans are implemented during construction, with ongoing monitoring to ensure compliance and minimise environmental impact.
Concise overview of findings and recommendations.
Discussion of proposal, site details, and relevant legislation.
Detailed description of assessment process.
Includes tree species, soil conditions, health issues, etc.
Organized tree information including location, species, etc.
Illustrates tree locations and plans for retention or removal.
Site inspection photos supporting the report.
Additional items to reinforce recommendations or explain methodology.
Indeed, an AQF5 consulting arborist will visit the site to gather site-specific details, collect data specific to trees, and tag and locate trees. This aspect of the process constitutes a significant portion of the work required to produce a high-quality report for submission with a Development Application (DA).
The decision to retain a tree depends on its health, significance, impact on development plans, local regulations, feasibility of mitigation measures, and stakeholder input. Balancing these factors helps determine whether a tree can be retained amidst proposed development.
The main purpose of an Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) is to evaluate how a proposed development might affect existing trees and vegetation. It identifies at-risk trees, quantifies impacts, informs decision-making, protects trees, and supports planning processes.
Completion time varies based on workload and project size, but most reports are finished within 2 weeks of engagement. If expedited service is needed, we strive to accommodate fast-track AIAs by rearranging schedules. We can often deliver reports within 1 week when urgency is paramount for our clients.
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