What Is a Tree Management Plan (TMP)?
A Tree Management Plan (TMP) in Whitehorse is a construction-phase document required under AS 4970 – Protection of Trees on Development Sites where development impacts retained trees.
It sets out Tree Protection Zone (TPZ) fencing, Structural Root Zone (SRZ) controls, approved construction methodologies, supervision triggers and compliance reporting requirements.
In Whitehorse, Tree Management Plans are commonly required as a Planning Permit condition and must typically be endorsed before demolition or construction commences.
When Does Whitehorse Council Require a Tree Management Plan?
A Tree Management Plan is typically required where:
- Construction occurs within a Tree Protection Zone (TPZ)
- Excavation approaches or encroaches into a Structural Root Zone (SRZ)
- Retained trees form part of endorsed Planning Permit drawings
- Clause 52.37 canopy retention applies
- A Planning Permit condition specifies tree protection
- Demolition or site establishment occurs near retained canopy trees
In most cases, protection fencing must be installed prior to demolition, excavation or site establishment and maintained throughout construction.
What Does an AS 4970 Tree Management Plan Include?
- Site-specific arboricultural assessment
- Accurate TPZ and SRZ calculations
- Overlay of protection zones onto architectural or engineering drawings
- Protection fencing specification and installation requirements
- Approved construction methodology within TPZ areas
- Root pruning protocols (where approved)
- Soil management and compaction controls
- Supervision triggers and inspection stages
- Compliance reporting framework
- Pre-commencement and post-construction certification requirements
Risks of Non-Compliance During Construction
Failure to comply with an endorsed Tree Management Plan may:
- Breach Planning Permit conditions
- Trigger enforcement action
- Require remediation works
- Delay Building Surveyor sign-off
- Delay Occupancy Permit approval
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, where construction impacts retained trees or where required by a Planning Permit condition.
Whitehorse typically requires endorsement prior to works commencing where TPZ or SRZ encroachments occur.
Before demolition or site establishment begins and maintained throughout construction.
No. A TMP sets protection measures before construction; a compliance letter confirms implementation.
Yes. Failure to comply with AS 4970 and permit conditions may delay Building Surveyor certification and Occupancy approval.
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