Tree Management Plans in Sydney
From Inner West DAs to Coastal Knockdowns, We’ve Got Your Tree Compliance Covered
Getting development approval in Sydney? If there are trees near your build, council will probably want to see a
Tree Management Plan (TMP). It’s not just a formality - it’s often a condition of your permit.
At TMC Reports, we deliver fast, council-aligned TMPs that take the stress out of tree compliance. Whether you’re updating a weatherboard in Newtown or preparing a duplex in Dee Why, we’ll help you protect the trees, and your timeline.
100% Council Compliance or Your Money Back
If your report isn’t accepted due to no-compliance, we refund you. No fuss. No forms. No stress.
Sydney’s Tree Rules Aren’t Optional
Sydney councils take tree protection seriously and each one applies the rules a little differently. If your works impact a Tree Protection Zone (TPZ), a TMP helps you avoid rejection, rework, or fines.
We tailor every plan to your construction method, site layout, and the specific documentation format preferred by your local council. Our AQF Level 5 arborists know what to include, how to explain it, and how to get it over the line.
Trusted By Builders and Planners Across Sydney
We regularly prepare TMPs for councils including:
- Inner West Council
- City of Sydney
- Waverley Council
- Randwick City Council
- Northern Beaches Council
- Georges River Council
- Canada Bay, Hornsby, Bayside, and more!
From tree-lined streets in Paddington to tight sites in Marrickville, we know how to protect existing trees without holding up your build.
Who We Work With
We help builders, homeowners, and project teams navigate Sydney’s strict tree rules. Our clients include:
Builders
preparing demolition or excavation near existing trees
Architects
lodging development applications or design reviews
Private homeowners updating gardens, driveways, or pools
Schools, government sites, and body corporates with established tree assets
If your DA involves vegetation (even along a boundary) your council will likely request a
Tree Management Plan before you get the green light.
What’s Included in Your Sydney TMP
Every Tree Management Plan we deliver is built to match your site layout, construction method, and local council’s specific format.
You’ll get:
- TPZ mapping and fencing locations
- Access paths and storage zones
- Low-impact excavation strategies
- Arborist notes for critical works
- Optional tree care and remediation
- AS 4970-2009 compliance
- Clear diagrams for council and contractors
Explore our full Tree Management Plan service to see how aTMP fits into your overall approvals strategy.
Fast, Council-Ready Reports - No Tree Talk Needed
We don’t expect you to know every root zone regulation. That’s our job. Whether you’re chasing pre-approval or already on site, we’ll help you get your documentation sorted.
Sydney’s 5-Star Rated Arborists (Just Ask Our Clients)
“Nick and the team were professional, knowledgeable, and took the time to answer all my questions about tree care. They arrived on time, worked efficiently, and ensured everything was done to perfection. I highly recommend them!”
—
Douglas Stefadouros ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I have used TMC a few times now and they have always been professional and taken the time to make sure that I was fully informed of all my options before they went ahead and did any work for me which I really appreciated. If you are looking for an arborist with integrity, this is the company you should use!”
—
Colin Isles ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Nick from TMC Reports has been an absolute gem in the process of getting a permit approved from the council for a diseased tree to be removed. The whole painstaking process with the Monash council unfortunately took over a year, but thankfully Nick was there to help me through it the entire time!”
— Cheryl G ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“As a draftsman I recommend TMC as they produce quality reports with high levels of detail, the team delivers timely service and great communication skills.”
— Matthew Vitale ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
FAQs
What is a TMP for?
Not at all. A TMP isn’t just paperwork - it’s a risk mitigation tool. Sydney councils use it to make sure any trees staying on-site will survive the construction process.
It shows you’ve thought about access, excavation, and how to avoid damaging roots or branches. For builders, it’s also a way to avoid fines or stop-work orders halfway through the job.
Does every tree on site need to be assessed?
Not always, but any tree that’s protected, retained, or within a few metres of the construction zone will likely need to be included. Some councils (like Hornsby and Northern Beaches) also require TMPs for trees on neighbouring properties if their roots or canopy could be affected.
We’ll identify which trees need to be covered during our site assessment.
Will a TMP delay my approval?
No. In fact, it can speed things up. Submitting a clear, council-compliant TMP upfront shows due diligence and often prevents follow-up questions.
We’ve helped clients avoid Requests for Further Information (RFIs) simply by anticipating what their council was going to ask.
What if I’m building on a small lot? Do I still need one?
Yes, especially in high-density areas like Newtown, Surry Hills, or Leichhardt. Even narrow blocks often have street trees, shared boundary trees, or private vegetation within range of the works.
Councils won’t consider the project size, only the potential for tree disturbance.
Can a TMP be prepared if work has already started?
Yes. While it's better to submit before breaking ground, we can provide retrospective TMPs if you’re already underway. If you’ve been contacted by council mid-construction, we’ll act fast to bring your site into compliance and minimise disruption.
What’s the difference between a TMP and a Vegetation Management Plan (VMP)?
A TMP focuses on tree protection during development, often required for construction near retained trees. A Vegetation Management Plan is broader and often used in bushland or large-scale sites to outline how native vegetation will be managed long-term.
If you’re unsure which one your council is asking for, we can help clarify.
Do you include a Tree Protection Plan drawing?
Yes, a scaled drawing is standard in all our TMPs. It maps out where fencing, protection zones, and no-go areas will be placed. Sydney councils generally won’t approve a TMP without this visual component.
Do you work in outer suburbs or only the inner city?
We cover the full Greater Sydney region, from Bondi and Balmain to Penrith, Campbelltown, and the Sutherland Shire.
If your site is in an LGA with a tree protection policy, we can assist.
OUR arborist SERVICES in SYDNEY
Tree Management Plan
Learn more
Root Investigation
Learn more
Arboricultural Impact Assessment
Learn more
Prelim Arboricultural Report
Learn more
