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BS5837 Tree Surveys
Arboricultural surveys for planning and development projects across the UK
Arb & Environmental provides BS5837 tree surveys for planning applications, development sites, and land use change. Our reports are prepared in accordance with BS5837:2012 and provide clear, accurate arboricultural information to support planning submissions, site design, and development feasibility.
We work with landowners, developers, and design teams to deliver practical, well structured tree surveys that balance planning requirements with on site realities.
What is a BS5837 Tree Survey?
A BS5837 tree survey is an arboricultural assessment required to support planning and development projects where trees may be affected by proposed construction. It records tree species, condition, size, root protection areas, and retention value to inform site design and planning decisions.
The survey is used to produce key planning documents including Tree Constraints Plans (TCP), Arboricultural Impact Assessments (AIA), and Tree Protection Plans (TPP), ensuring that development proposals account for existing tree stock and comply with planning requirements. It is a standard requirement within UK planning systems where trees may be affected by development proposals The survey forms the basis for Tree Constraints Plans (TCP), Arboricultural Impact Assessments (AIA), and Tree Protection Plans (TPP).
What happens after a BS5837 survey?
Once the BS5837 tree survey has been completed, the data is processed and translated into a set of planning ready arboricultural outputs that inform the design and submission stages of your project. The first stage is the production of a Tree Schedule and associated plans, which clearly set out the category grading, condition, Root Protection Areas (RPA), and spatial constraints of all recorded trees on or adjacent to the site.
From this, key supporting documents may be prepared depending on the requirements of the project and the planning authority. These typically include a Tree Constraints Plan (TCP), which illustrates how trees influence developable areas of the site, and an Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA), which evaluates how the proposed design interacts with retained trees. Where development is proceeding, a Tree Protection Plan (TPP) and, if required, an Arboricultural Method Statement (AMS) may also be produced to ensure construction activity is controlled and compliant with BS5837:2012 guidance.
The outputs are then integrated into the wider planning submission package, working alongside architectural drawings and other consultant reports. In some cases, the arboricultural information is used iteratively during the design process, helping refine layouts to reduce tree impacts and improve planning outcomes. Once submitted, these documents may also be referenced by the local planning authority during validation and determination, and later used as the basis for planning condition discharge and on site tree protection during construction.
When is a BS5837 Tree Survey required?
A BS5837 survey is typically required when:
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Submitting a planning application involving trees
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Developing land with existing vegetation or woodland
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Building near trees or within a root protection area
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Redeveloping residential, commercial, or brownfield sites
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Working on sites with Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) or conservation constraints
Local planning authorities often require BS5837 documentation before validating planning applications.
What our BS5837 surveys include
Our surveys are fully compliant with BS5837:2012 and typically include:
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Detailed tree schedule and survey data
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Tree categorisation (A, B, C, U grading)
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Root Protection Area (RPA) calculations
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Tree Constraints Plan (TCP)
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Arboricultural input for planning layout design
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Development impact considerations
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Tree protection recommendations
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Clear, planning ready reporting
Where required, we also provide Arboricultural Impact Assessments and Tree Protection Plans as part of the planning package.
A Practical, Planning Focused Approach
Our BS5837 surveys are designed to be usable, not just compliant. We focus on producing clear, structured information that can be directly integrated into planning drawings, design proposals, and consultant teams.
Where appropriate, we work alongside architects, planning consultants, and developers to help ensure that tree constraints are understood early in the design process, reducing delays and planning risk.
Supporting Arboricultural Services
BS5837 surveys often form part of a wider planning and development package, including:
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Arboricultural Impact Assessments (AIA)
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Tree Protection Plans (TPP)
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Construction phase arboricultural supervision
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Tree risk assessments
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Pre development site assessments
These services can be provided individually or as part of a full planning support package.
Clients We Support
We provide BS5837 tree surveys for:
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Property developers
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Architects and design teams
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Private landowners
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Planning consultants
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Estate managers
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Commercial developers
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Local authority projects
UK Wide 5837 Surveys
Arb & Environmental provides BS5837 tree surveys across the UK, with a strong working presence in Kent and the South East, including Maidstone, Sevenoaks, Tunbridge Wells, Canterbury, and surrounding areas.
We travel all over the country to provide both direct tree surveys and survey support to clients within the industry.
Need a BS5837 Tree Survey?
If you are preparing a planning application or assessing development potential, we can provide a clear and reliable BS5837 tree survey tailored to your site.
Contact Arb & Environmental to discuss your project
We also provide dedicated local arboricultural surveys across Kent and surrounding regions.
Local BS5837 Tree Survey Services
BS5837 Tree Surveys Sevenoaks
BS5837 Tree Surveys Canterbury
BS5837 Tree Surveys Tunbridge Wells
Each location page includes site specific guidance and planning context relevant to that area.
Frequently Asked Questions About BS5837 Tree Surveys
What is a BS5837 tree survey?
A BS5837 tree survey is an assessment of trees on or adjacent to a development site carried out in accordance with British Standard BS5837:2012, Trees in Relation to Design, Demolition and Construction, Recommendations. The survey records tree species, dimensions, condition, life expectancy, and constraints to help inform the planning and design process. Whether on a small residential site, or on large commercial sites, BS5837 Tree Surveys offers an insight into exactly what can and can't be constructed on a site.
When is a BS5837 tree survey required?
A BS5837 tree survey is typically required when a planning application involves existing trees that could be affected by development. Local Planning Authorities often request a BS5837 survey where trees are present on or near a site proposed for housing, commercial development, extensions, infrastructure works, or change of land use. These tree can be the reason a development doesn't go ahead, so we recommend to our clients to get in early and understand exactly what constraints are present on any given site.
What does a BS5837 tree survey include?
A BS5837 survey usually includes:
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Tree species identification
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Tree height and crown spread measurements
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Stem diameter measurements
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Tree condition assessment
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BS5837 category grading (A, B, C or U)
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Estimated remaining contribution
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Root Protection Area (RPA) calculations
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A Tree Constraints Plan
The information helps architects, developers, and planners design around existing trees.
What is a Tree Constraints Plan?
A Tree Constraints Plan (TCP) is a drawing produced from the survey data showing tree locations, canopy spreads, and Root Protection Areas. It identifies where trees may influence development proposals and helps guide site layout design at an early stage. Established trees will often have an area around them in which building cannot occur.
What are BS5837 tree categories?
BS5837 categorises trees according to their quality and expected contribution:
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Category A – Trees of high quality and value.
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Category B – Trees of moderate quality and value.
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Category C – Trees of low quality or limited value.
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Category U – Trees unsuitable for retention.
These categories help determine which trees should be retained and protected during development.
What is a Root Protection Area (RPA)?
A Root Protection Area is the minimum area around a tree that should be protected from construction impacts. The RPA is calculated using BS5837 guidance and is shown on survey drawings to help avoid damage to roots during development works. This allows architects to accurately plot where buildings can be located.
Do I need a BS5837 survey for a house extension?
In many cases, yes. If trees are located on or near the property and may be affected by foundations, access routes, excavation, or construction activity, the Local Planning Authority may request a BS5837 survey as part of the planning application.
Can a BS5837 survey help with planning permission?
Yes. A professionally prepared BS5837 survey provides the tree information required by planners, architects, and design teams. It helps identify constraints early and can reduce delays during the planning process.
How long does a BS5837 tree survey take?
The field survey can often be completed within a day for smaller sites. Larger development sites may require additional survey time. The final report and drawings are typically issued within a few working days, depending on site size and project requirements.
How much does a BS5837 tree survey cost?
The cost of a BS5837 survey depends on factors such as site size, the number of trees, accessibility, and project complexity. Small residential sites are generally less expensive than larger commercial or development projects. Contact us for a tailored quotation.
Do you provide BS5837 tree surveys across the UK?
Yes. We provide BS5837 tree surveys, Tree Constraints Plans, Arboricultural Impact Assessments, Arboricultural Method Statements, and related planning support for residential, commercial, infrastructure, and development projects throughout the UK.