BS5837 Tree Surveys for Planning Applications

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A BS5837 tree survey is typically required where development proposals may affect existing trees on or adjacent to a site. The survey records tree species, dimensions, condition, retention value, and Root Protection Areas (RPA), helping design teams understand how trees may influence layout, access, construction activity, and long term site use.

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The survey forms the foundation of the BS5837 planning process and is commonly used to support:

• Planning applications

• Site feasibility assessments

• Residential development projects

• Commercial and mixed-use development

• Land promotion and strategic site planning

• Development layout and access design

Our reports are structured to provide clear, usable information for both planning authorities and wider consultant teams.

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Arboricultural Surveys Across Kent

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We provide BS5837 tree surveys across Kent including:

• Maidstone

• Sevenoaks

• Tunbridge Wells

• Canterbury

• Ashford

• Tonbridge

• Medway

• West Malling

• Tenterden

• Surrounding areas across Kent and the South East

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We are familiar with the planning requirements, landscape sensitivities, and development pressures affecting sites throughout the region, allowing us to provide practical arboricultural advice informed by local context and planning considerations.

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What our BS5837 surveys include

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Our BS5837 surveys are tailored to the scale and requirements of each project and may include:

• Detailed tree survey schedule

• Tree categorisation (A, B, C, U grading)

• Root Protection Area calculations

• Tree Constraints Plans (TCP)

• Arboricultural planning input

• Development impact considerations

• Tree retention recommendations

• Arboricultural reporting compliant with BS5837:2012

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Where required, we also provide supporting Arboricultural Impact Assessments, Tree Protection Plans, and construction phase arboricultural support.

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A practical, development focused approach

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We understand that arboricultural surveys form part of a wider planning and development process. Our approach focuses on producing reports that are not only technically compliant, but also practical, clearly structured, and useful to design teams, planners, and landowners.

By identifying tree-related constraints early, clients are better positioned to make informed decisions regarding site layout, development feasibility, and long term land use strategy.

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Related Arboricultural Services

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BS5837 tree surveys are commonly supported by:

• Arboricultural Impact Assessments (AIA)

• Tree Constraints Plans (TCP)

• Tree Protection Plans (TPP)

• Arboricultural Method Statements (AMS)

• Construction phase arboricultural supervision

• Tree risk assessments

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These services can be provided individually or as part of a coordinated planning support package.

 

Clients We Support

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We provide BS5837 tree surveys across Kent for:

• Property developers

• Architects and planning consultants

• Private landowners

• Estate managers

• Commercial development projects

• Residential development sites

• Infrastructure and land use projects

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Need a BS5837 Tree Survey in Kent?

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If you are preparing a planning application or assessing the development potential of a site in Kent, Arb & Environmental can provide clear, BS5837 compliant arboricultural surveys tailored to your project requirements.

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Contact us to discuss your site or development proposal.

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Or feel free to visit one of our local pages 

BS5837 Tree Surveys Canterbury

BS5837 Tree Surveys Ashford

BS5837 Tree Surveys Tunbridge Wells

BS5837 Tree Surveys Maidstone 

BS5837 Tree Surveys Sevenoaks

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Frequently Asked Questions About BS5837 Tree Surveys in Kent

What is a BS5837 tree survey in Kent?

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A BS5837 tree survey is a professional arboricultural assessment undertaken in accordance with BS5837:2012, Trees in Relation to Design, Demolition and Construction. The survey records the condition, quality, and constraints of trees on or near a development site and is commonly required to support planning applications throughout Kent.

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Do I need a BS5837 tree survey for planning permission in Kent?

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In many cases, yes. Kent planning authorities frequently require a BS5837 survey where trees may be affected by proposed development. This applies to house extensions, new dwellings, commercial developments, access roads, and redevelopment projects where trees are present on or adjacent to the site.

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Which Kent developments commonly require a BS5837 survey?

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BS5837 surveys are regularly required for:

• Residential developments

• Self build plots

• House extensions

• Barn conversions

• Commercial developments

• Agricultural diversification projects

• Development near woodland or mature trees

Any proposal with trees within influencing distance of the development may require arboricultural assessment.

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What does a BS5837 tree survey include?

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A BS5837 survey typically includes:

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• Tree species identification

• Tree height and crown spread measurements

• Stem diameter measurements

• Tree condition assessments

• BS5837 categorisation (A, B, C or U)

• Remaining life expectancy

• Root Protection Area calculations

• Tree Constraints Plan drawings

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The information is used to guide site design and support planning applications.

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What is a Tree Constraints Plan?

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A Tree Constraints Plan (TCP) is a scaled drawing showing tree locations, canopy spreads and Root Protection Areas. It helps architects, developers and planners understand how existing trees influence the development potential of a site.

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What is a Root Protection Area (RPA)?

 

A Root Protection Area is the minimum area surrounding a tree that should be protected from construction activity. RPAs help prevent damage to tree roots during excavation, foundation works, service installation and changes in ground level.

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Are BS5837 surveys required for house extensions in Kent?

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They can be. Many householder applications in Kent require a BS5837 survey where mature trees are located within or near the proposed development area. Early arboricultural input can help avoid planning delays and redesign costs.

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Can a BS5837 survey help avoid planning delays?

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Yes. Identifying tree constraints early in the design process allows layouts to be developed around retained trees. This can reduce planning queries, minimise redesign requirements and improve the likelihood of a smoother planning process.

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Are orchard trees assessed during a BS5837 survey?

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Yes. Kent has a strong historic association with orchards, and orchard trees may be assessed where they contribute to landscape character, biodiversity or local planning considerations. Existing orchard trees can be an important factor in site design and planning decisions.

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What other arboricultural reports may be required after a BS5837 survey?

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Depending on the project, additional reports may include:

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• Arboricultural Impact Assessments (AIA)

• Arboricultural Method Statements (AMS)

• Tree Protection Plans (TPP)

• Arboricultural Clerk of Works services

• Construction site monitoring

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These documents are often required as a project progresses through planning and construction.

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How long does a BS5837 tree survey take in Kent?

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Most residential sites can be surveyed within a day, with reports typically issued within a few working days. Larger or more complex development sites may require additional survey and reporting time.

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Which areas of Kent do you cover?

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We provide BS5837 tree surveys throughout Kent, including:

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• Maidstone

• Canterbury

• Ashford

• Tonbridge

• Tunbridge Wells

• Sevenoaks

• Dartford

• Gravesend

• Folkestone

• Dover

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as well as rural and agricultural sites across the county.

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