An arboriculturist is a qualified tree specialist who provides professional arboricultural consultancy - producing BS 5837 tree surveys for planning applications, arboricultural impact assessments, and expert advice on trees protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). Unlike a tree surgeon who carries out practical tree work, an arboriculturist provides the written assessments and reports required by local planning authorities and used in insurance claims involving root damage.
What they do
- Carry out BS 5837 tree surveys for planning applications
- Produce Arboricultural Impact Assessments (AIAs)
- Advise on TPO consent applications and conservation area notifications
- Assess trees for structural safety and failure risk
- Investigate root damage for insurance claims
- Specify tree protection during construction
- Carry out pruning, crown reduction and felling
- Produce tree management plans for estates and local authorities
When you need one
An arboriculturist's written report is required by most planning authorities for any development near trees, and for any work to trees protected by TPOs.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Job type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| BS 5837 tree survey report | £250 - £700 |
| Arboricultural Impact Assessment | £400 - £1,200 |
| Small tree pruning | £150 - £400 |
| Large tree crown reduction | £500 - £1,500+ |
| Tree felling (per tree) | £200 - £1,500 |
| Stump grinding | £100 - £400 |
| Hourly rate | £60 - £100 / hr |
BS 5837 survey costs increase significantly for large sites with many trees. Always confirm whether the survey fee includes the arboricultural method statement and tree protection plan drawings required by most planning authorities.
Qualifications to look for
The Arboricultural Association's Registered Consultant status is the standard for arboricultural consultants producing BS 5837 reports for planning. Required or strongly preferred by most local planning authorities. Search at trees.org.uk.
NPTC/City and Guilds CS30 (chainsaw maintenance), CS38 (felling small trees) and CS31 (aerial tree work) are the mandatory competency certificates for practical tree work. These confirm safe working practice alongside arboricultural knowledge.
How to find a reputable arboriculturist
Frequently asked questions
What is a TPO?
A Tree Preservation Order is a legal protection made by the local planning authority that prevents the felling, pruning or other work to a tree without the council's consent. Consent can be refused or conditions imposed. Carrying out work to a protected tree without consent is a criminal offence carrying an unlimited fine.
Do I need permission to fell a tree in my garden?
Not usually - unless the tree has a TPO or the property is in a conservation area, where the council must be notified 6 weeks before work to trees over a certain size. There is no general restriction on felling unprotected trees outside a conservation area, but you should check with your local authority if in any doubt.
What is a BS 5837 tree survey?
A survey carried out to the British Standard for Trees in Relation to Design, Demolition and Construction. It identifies trees on a site, assesses their quality and retention value, and determines a Root Protection Area for each tree. A BS 5837 survey is required for most planning applications near trees, whether or not the trees have TPOs.