BS5837 Tree Survey Information

What you need to know about tree surveys and planning

About BS5837 Tree Work

BS5837 is the British Standard that guides how trees should be assessed, protected, and managed when development or construction is planned nearby.

Tree surveys are often required for planning applications and ensures that valuable trees are properly considered before any groundwork begins. It helps identify which trees can be retained, which may need pruning or removal, and what protection measures must be put in place throughout the build.

Tree works under BS5837 are carefully specified to meet planning requirements and may include:

- Arboricultural supervision during construction

- Crown lifting or reduction for clearance

- Removal of unsuitable or unsafe trees

- Root protection area considerations

By following BS5837 guidance, developers and property owners can avoid costly delays, protect important trees, and ensure full compliance with local authority expectations.

BS5837 tree surveys play a critical role in ensuring development projects proceed smoothly while protecting valuable trees on and around the site.

Every week, planning applications are delayed or challenged because trees have not been properly assessed, categorised, or considered within the design process.

Without the correct survey and recommendations in place, construction can unintentionally damage root systems, breach planning conditions, or lead to the unnecessary loss of important trees.

BS5837 work requires detailed arboricultural knowledge, accurate measurements, and a full understanding of local authority expectations. From root protection areas and constraints plans to supervised tree works during construction, professional input ensures both compliance and long-term tree retention.

By following the BS5837 process correctly, developers can reduce risk, avoid costly issues, and deliver projects that meet modern planning and environmental standards.

What sets Arborglyph apart

As an established arboricultural consultancy supporting developments across Lincoln and the surrounding area, Arborglyph Tree Services provides clear, planning-ready BS5837 expertise at every stage of a project.

Our surveys and reports are designed to meet local authority requirements and help developers progress with confidence, offering:

Level 4 Arboriculture qualification – professional tree inspection and development-focused assessment beyond basic tree work
BS5837-compliant surveying and reporting – accurate categorisation, constraints plans, and detailed recommendations for planning
Root Protection Area (RPA) guidance – ensuring trees are properly safeguarded throughout design and construction
Tree Protection Plans & Method Statements – practical, site-specific documents to support planning submissions and conditions
Arboricultural supervision during works – on-site monitoring to ensure compliance during demolition, excavation, and build phases
Full insurance cover – comprehensive Employers’, Public Liability, an Professional Indemnity protection for complete peace of mind
Ecological awareness and bat scoping certification – supporting responsible tree management where protected species may be present
Clear, professional communication – straightforward advice for architects, developers, and homeowners alike
Transparent quotations and specifications – no hidden costs, just clear professional reporting and guidance

Our approach: Advice you can trust

We regularly encounter development sites where trees have not been properly assessed or where planning conditions are unclear. Our approach is straightforward: we listen to your project requirements first, then provide practical, BS5837-compliant guidance tailored to your specific site.

Sometimes that means recommending specific tree works to facilitate safe development. Other times it means confirming that minimal intervention is all that’s needed. We will often advise that no work is required at all. Our reputation is built on clear, objective arboricultural advice — not unnecessary recommendations that create extra cost or risk.

Proven track record

Our client list speaks for itself. From domestic homeowners to parish councils, from commercial developments to heritage properties, we’ve earned the trust of:

> Prestigious venues including The Vedanta Branston Hall and International Bomber Command Centre

> Commercial clients including Witham Oil, Chiselwood Kitchens, and Railway Paths Ltd

> Professional relationships with Fossdyke Developments and Stem Architects

> Community facilities like The Coronation Hall, Woodhall Spa

> Multiple parish councils across Lincolnshire

Quality, reliability, professionalism

Our clients consistently describe us as professional, knowledgeable, trustworthy, and reliable. They value our clear communication, planning-ready reporting, and the reassurance that all work is carried out in accordance with BS5837 guidance and local authority expectations.

Most importantly, they come back to us time and again — and recommend us to others.

Because when it comes to trees and development, you deserve someone who knows what they’re doing. Someone qualified. Someone insured. Someone who provides honest arboricultural advice, not just the easiest answer.

For professional BS5837 surveys and tree consultancy you can trust, contact Arborglyph Tree Services today.

Tried and Trusted Tree Surgeon Lincoln | Why Choose Us?

What makes us different. Why our clients trust our advice. Why Arborglyph is the safe, professional choice for your trees.

Professional Tree Inspections & Surveys

Qualified advice you can rely on – not guesswork.

With Level 4 Arboriculture qualifications, Arborglyph provides professional tree inspections and surveys, including BS5837 reports. Every recommendation is based on tree health, safety, and long-term management.

Fair, Honest & Independent Advice

We advise first – the work comes second.

We offer honest, transparent advice whether you proceed with work or not. Inspections and surveys are completed thoroughly, with clear recommendations provided regardless of the final decision — giving you confidence and control.

Tailored Specifications for Every Tree

No “one-size-fits-all” tree work.

Every job is carefully assessed and tailored to the tree, site, and objectives. From precise pruning to complex removals, all work is specified towards British Standards and best arboricultural practice.