Do existing trees need to be shown on the DA plans?
Yes, where existing trees are relevant to the development, they need to be identified in the DA documentation. This is particularly important for trees that are proposed to be retained, removed or affected by the works, and for trees protected under the Urban Forest Act 2023.
Yes. Existing trees that may be affected by the development should be shown and addressed in the DA plans.
The plans should make it clear which relevant trees are being retained and protected and which may be affected or proposed for removal. Depending on the proposal, this information may appear on the landscape plan, tree survey or Tree Management Plan (TMP).
ACT Planning's current Development Application Naming Conventions specifically says:
- A Landscape Plan includes the location of trees to be retained, their height and size, and associated protection measures.
- A Tree Survey, prepared by an arborist, records relevant characteristics of trees on the development site or trees impacted by the development.
- A Tree Management Plan identifies protected trees proposed for removal and the measures for protecting trees being retained.
For example, if an existing mature tree is close to a proposed dual occupancy, it should be identified so the design can demonstrate whether the tree will be retained, removed or potentially affected by construction.
Reference: Development Application Naming Conventions ? Landscape Plan, Tree Survey and Tree Management Plan - https://www.planning.act.gov.au/applications-and-assessments/development-applications/before-you-apply/naming-conventions
Link on the answer: https://www.planning.act.gov.au/applications-and-assessments/development-applications/before-you-apply/naming-conventions
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| Dual Occupancy Q&A | #548 | agrees | 01/09/2026 |