Melbourne TreeRemovers

Arborist Report Cost in Melbourne (2026 Guide)

An arborist report is often the first step before removing, pruning or building near a significant tree in Melbourne. Many councils require one as part of a planning permit application. Here is what you can expect to pay for different levels of arborist assessment.

Arborist Report Cost Summary

Basic Assessment

Visual inspection + summary

$300 – $500

Standard Report

Council-ready documentation

$500 – $800

Detailed (Level 5)

Comprehensive AS 4970

$800 – $1,500

* Indicative prices include GST. Council permit fees ($200\u2013$800) are additional.

Factors Affecting Arborist Report Cost

Report Level Required

A basic visual assessment is the cheapest option. If your council requires a detailed report compliant with AS 4970-2009 (the Protection of Trees on Development Sites standard), the cost increases significantly.

Number of Trees

Reports covering multiple trees cost more than a single-tree assessment. Most arborists offer a per-tree rate for additional trees on the same property.

Purpose of Report

Reports for planning permit applications, development proposals or insurance claims may require more detailed analysis and recommendations than a simple health check.

Travel & Location

Arborists may charge a travel fee for properties in outer Melbourne suburbs. Inner-city jobs are generally cheaper due to proximity to most arborist offices.

Melbourne-Specific Pricing Notes

Melbourne has some of the strictest tree protection regulations in Australia. Councils such as Boroondara, Whitehorse, Manningham, Yarra Ranges and Stonnington frequently require arborist reports before approving tree removal permits.

Properties within vegetation protection overlays (VPOs), significant landscape overlays (SLOs) or heritage overlays will almost always need a detailed Level 5 report. Budget for both the arborist report ($500\u2013$1,500) and the council permit fee ($200\u2013$800) when planning your tree work.

For more information, see our complete guide to arborist reports.

Frequently Asked Questions

A basic arborist assessment in Melbourne typically costs $300 to $500. This covers a visual inspection and a brief written summary of the tree condition and recommended actions.

A Level 5 arborist report (also called a detailed or comprehensive assessment) follows the Australian Standard AS 4970-2009. It involves a thorough evaluation of the tree, including health, structure, risk assessment, and recommendations. It is typically required for planning permit applications.

You may need an arborist report when applying for a tree removal permit, before building or renovating near trees, for insurance claims, to assess storm damage, or when buying a property with significant trees.

Not always. Some arborists include permit lodgement as part of their service, while others charge separately. Council permit fees are always additional and typically range from $200 to $800 depending on the municipality.

Most arborist reports in Melbourne are delivered within 5 to 10 business days after the on-site inspection. Urgent reports can sometimes be arranged for an additional fee.

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