Reports · North Shore
Arborist reports for council, development and insurance
A good arborist report is often the difference between a tree permit being approved or refused. Here's when you need one and who can write it.
When you need a report
- Council applications where you're claiming the tree is unsafe or damaging property. Lane Cove requires an AQF Level 5 report for these, and strongly recommends one for 4 or more trees.
- Development applications where trees are near the works. These follow AS 4970-2009 and set tree protection zones.
- Insurance claims and disputes with neighbours, strata or insurers.
- Buying a property with large trees you're unsure about.
Who can write one
Council reports are written by consulting arborists with AQF Level 5 (Diploma of Arboriculture). Willoughby Council adds a condition: the report writer must have no financial or business ties to a tree removal or pruning company, and the report must follow AS 4373 and AS 4970. For Willoughby, we refer you to an independent consulting arborist.
What a report costs
| Job | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arborist report | $345 | $520 | $805 |
Typical Sydney prices including GST, from the What's The Damage Sydney cost guide (November 2026). Your quote depends on the tree, access and what's around it.
Arborist reports by suburb
We cover the lower and upper north shore. Local pages:
Common questions
Do I always need a report to remove a tree?
No. Many applications only need photos and a description. Reports matter when you're claiming risk or damage, when a development is involved, or when several trees are affected.
How long does a report take?
It depends on the consulting arborist's schedule and the complexity of the site. Allow for the site visit plus write-up time, and book early if you're working to a DA deadline.
Need a tree looked at?
Tell us the suburb and send a photo. We'll tell you what's involved, whether council needs to approve it, and what it should cost.