ANSI

A300 (Part 5)-2012

American National Standard

for Tree Care Operations –

Tree, Shrub, and Other Woody Plant Management –

Standard Practices (Management of Trees and Shrubs During Site
Planning, Site Development, and Construction)

Secretariat
Tree Care Industry Association, Inc.

Published by
Tree Care Industry Association, Inc.
136 Harvey Road – Ste 101
Londonderry, NH 03053
800-733-2622
603-314-5380
Fax: 603-314-5386
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.tcia.org

Copyright © 2012 by the Tree Care Industry Association, Inc.

All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, in an electronic retrieval system or
otherwise, without prior written permission of the publisher.

www.tcia.org © Tree Care Industry Association, Inc. All rights reserved 3

ANSI
A300 (Part 5)-2012

Approval of an American National Standard requires review by ANSI that the require-
American ments for due process, consensus, and other criteria for approval have been met by the
National standards developer.

Standard Consensus is established when, in the judgement of the ANSI Board of Standards
Review, substantial agreement has been reached by directly and materially affected
interests. Substantial agreement means much more than a simple majority, but not nec-
essarily unanimity. Consensus requires that all views and objections be considered, and
that a concerted effort be made toward their resolution.

The use of American National Standards is completely voluntary; their existence does
not in any respect preclude anyone, whether he has approved the standards or not, from
manufacturing, marketing, purchasing or using products, processes or procedures not
conforming to the standards.

The American National Standards Institute does not develop standards and will in no cir-
cumstances give an interpretation of any American National Standard. Moreover, no per-
son shall have the right or authority to issue an interpretation of an American National
Standard in the name of the American National Standards Institute. Requests for inter-
pretations should be addressed to the secretariat or sponsor whose name appears on
the title page of this standard.

CAUTION NOTICE: This American National Standard may be revised or withdrawn at

any time. The procedures of the American National Standards Institute require that action
be taken periodically to reaffirm, revise, or withdraw this standard. Purchasers of
American National Standards may receive current information on all standards by call-
ing or writing the American National Standards Institute.

American National Standards Institute, Inc.

Headquarters:
1899 L Street, NW
11th Floor
Washington, DC 20036
New York Office:
25 West 43rd Street
4th Floor
New York, NY 10036

www.ansi.org

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 ANSI
A300 (Part 5)-2012

Contents

Foreword ......................................................................................................................... 6
1 ANSI A300 standards scope, purpose, and application ................................................. 8
50 Part 5 – Management of Trees and Shrubs During Site Planning, Site Development,
and Construction – standards .......................................................................................... 8
51 Normative references ........................................................................................................ 9
52 Definitions .......................................................................................................................... 9
53 Management of Trees and Shrubs During Site Planning, Site Development, and
Construction – practices ................................................................................................. 10
54 Tree protection practices prior to and during demolition,
construction, and landscaping ....................................................................................... 13

Annex A Management report information ............................................................. 17

Annex B Management planning flow chart ........................................................... 19
Annex C Purpose and implementation information .............................................. 20
Annex D Preferred methods to avoid damage to roots ........................................ 21

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ANSI
A300 (Part 5)-2012

Foreword This foreword is not part of American National Standard A300 (Part 5)-2012
Management of trees and shrubs during site planning, site development and construction.

ANSI A300 Standards are divided into multiple parts, each focusing on a specific aspect of
woody plant management (e.g. Pruning, Soil Management, Supplemental Support Systems,
etc).

These standards are used to develop written specifications for work assignments. They are not
intended to be used as specifications in and of themselves. Management objectives may differ
considerably and therefore must be specifically defined by the user. Specifications are then
written to meet the established objectives and must include measurable criteria.

ANSI A300 standards apply to professionals who provide for, or supervise the management of,
trees, shrubs, and other woody landscape plants. Intended users include businesses, govern-
ment agencies, property owners, property managers, and utilities. The standard does not apply
to agriculture, horticultural production, or silviculture, except where explicitly noted otherwise.

This standard has been developed by the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), an ANSI-
accredited Standards Developing Organization (SDO). TCIA is secretariat of the ANSI A300
standards, and develops standards using procedures accredited by the American National
Standards Institute (ANSI).

Consensus for standards writing was developed by the Accredited Standards Committee on
Tree, Shrub, and Other Woody Plant Management Operations – Standard Practices, A300
(ASC A300).

Prior to 1991, various industry associations and practitioners developed their own standards
and recommendations for tree care practices. Recognizing the need for a standardized, scien-
tific approach, green industry associations, government agencies and tree care companies
agreed to develop consensus for an official American National Standard.

The result – ANSI A300 standards – unify and take authoritative precedence over all previously
existing tree care industry standards. ANSI requires that approved standards be developed
according to accepted principles, and that they be reviewed and, if necessary, revised every
five years.

TCIA was accredited as a standards developing organization with ASC A300 as the consensus
body on June 28, 1991. ASC A300 meets regularly to write new, and review and revise exist-
ing, ANSI A300 standards. The committee includes industry representatives with broad knowl-
edge and technical expertise from residential and commercial tree care, utility, municipal and
federal sectors, landscape and nursery industries, and other interested organizations.

Suggestions for improvement of this standard should be forwarded to: ANSI A300 Secretary,
c/o Tree Care Industry Association, Inc., 136 Harvey Road - Suite 101, Londonderry, NH
03053.

ANSI A300 (Part 5)-2012 Management of Trees and Shrubs During Site Planning, Site
Development, and Construction was approved as an American National Standard by ANSI on
February 7, 2012. ANSI approval does not require unanimous approval by ASC A300.

(Continued)

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 ANSI
A300 (Part 5)-2012

The ASC A300 has the following members as of February 7, 2012:

Dane Buell, Chair Bob Rouse, Secretary

(SavATree, Inc.) (Tree Care Industry Association, Inc.)

Organizations Represented Name of Representative

Alliance for Community Trees Michael Galvin
Carrie Gallagher (Alt.)
American Forests Guy Meilleur
Joseph Murray (Alt.)
American Nursery and Landscape Association Warren Quinn
Craig J. Regelbrugge (Alt.)
American Society of Consulting Arborists Stephen Miller
American Society of Landscape Architects Ron Leighton
Asplundh Tree Expert Company Geoff Kempter
Peter Fengler (Alt.)
Bartlett Tree Expert Company Peter Becker
Dr. Thomas Smiley (Alt.)
Davey Tree Expert Company Chris Klimas
Grant Jones (Alt.)
International Society of Arboriculture Dr. Richard Hauer
Sharon Lilly (Alt.)
Professional Grounds Management Society Thomas Shaner
Professional Land Care Network Alice Carter
Sabeena Hickman (Alt.)
Society of Municipal Arborists Gordon Mann
Nolan Rundquist (Alt.)
Tree Care Industry Association Mark Stennes
Steve Mays Jr. (Alt.)
USDA Forest Service Keith Cline
Ed Macie (Alt.)
Utility Arborist Association Matthew Simons
Bill Rees (Alt.)

Additional organizations and individuals:

Peter Gerstenberger (Observer)

Andy Hillman (Observer)
Tim Johnson (Observer)
Myron Laible (Observer)
Beth Palys (Observer)
Richard Rathjens (Observer)
Mary Reynolds (Observer)
Richard Roux (NFPA-780 Liaison)
Donald Zimar (Observer)

ASC A300 mission statement:

Mission: To develop consensus performance standards based on current research and sound practice
for writing specifications to manage trees, shrubs, and other woody plants.

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ANSI
A300 (Part 5)-2012

American National Standard 50.2.1 The reasons for tree management during
for Tree Care Operations – site planning, construction, post-construction main-
tenance phases of development, and future main-
Part 5 Management of trees tenance is to conserve and integrate existing and
future trees and shrubs that are appropriate for the
and shrubs during site owner’s, owner’s agent, or controlling authority’s
intended use and development of the site.
planning, site development,
and construction 50.2.2 Trees and shrubs should be conserved
and integrated during site planning and develop-
Subclauses 1.1 to 1.3 excerpted from ANSI ment for a variety of reasons, including economic,
A300 (Part 1) Pruning. social, environmental, and cultural factors.

1 ANSI A300 standards 50.2.2.1 Trees and shrubs should be consid-

ered community assets that provide benefits
1.1 Scope including shade, air quality, storm water intercep-
tion, heat island mitigation, energy conservation,
ANSI A300 standards present performance stan- carbon sequestration, enhanced property values,
dards for the care and management of trees, and community or site character.
shrubs, and other woody plants.
50.3 Implementation
1.2 Purpose
50.3.1 Tree management plans and specifications
ANSI A300 performance standards are intended for tree management plans should be written and
for use by federal, state, municipal and private administered by an arborist qualified in manage-
entities including arborists, property owners, prop- ment of trees and shrubs during site planning,
erty managers, and utilities for developing written development, and construction.
specifications.
53.3.2 Tree management plans shall be in com-
1.3 Application pliance with applicable ordinances, rules, regula-
tions, and standards.
ANSI A300 performance standards shall apply to
any person or entity engaged in the management 50.3.3 Decisions on the development of the prop-
of trees, shrubs, or other woody plants. erty should be made with the knowledge of the
tree resources present.
50 Part 5 – Management of trees and
shrubs during site planning, site 50.3.3.1 The arborist should be involved in the
development, and construction – initial planning stages and be familiar with the
standards community’s development and tree protection ordi-
nances and processes.
50.1 Purpose
50.3.4 Monitoring of the construction process by
The purpose of this clause is to provide standards an arborist should be specified to: ensure compli-
for developing specifications for the management ance with plan requirements; to monitor health and
of trees and shrubs during site planning, site condition of the tree(s); to check for symptoms of
development, and construction. stress or signs of damage; and, to initiate remedial
action as needed.
50.2 Reason
50.3.4.1 Monitoring specifications should
To assess structural integrity and other factors that address scheduling of inspections before and dur-
affect the level of risk to people or property and to ing critical phases, including, but not limited to, the
provide information for mitigating risk. following activities:
Demolition;
Grading;

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 ANSI
A300 (Part 5)-2012

1)
Building construction; 29 CFR 1910, General Industry
Walkway and path construction;
Road construction; 29 CFR 1910.146, Permit-required Confined
Excavation; Spaces (PRCS) 1)
Trenching and boring;
1)
Drainage system installation; and 29 CFR 1910.268, Telecommunications
Landscaping.
29 CFR 1910.269, Electric Power Generation &
50.3.5 Management specifications shall be Distribution 1)
adhered to.
1)
29 CFR 1910.331-335, Electrical Safety
50.4 Safety
1)
Available from U.S. Department of Labor, 200
50.4.1 This performance standard shall not take Constitution Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20210.
precedence over applicable industry safe work
practices. 52 Definitions (Definitions are considered
part of the ANSI A300 Part 5 standard)
50.4.2 Tree management shall be performed only
by arborists or arborist trainees who, through relat- 52.1 arborist: An individual engaged in the pro-
ed training or on-the-job experience, or both, are fession of arboriculture who, through experience,
familiar with the standards, practices and hazards education and related training, possesses the com-
of arboriculture related to development, and the petence to provide for, or supervise the manage-
equipment used in such operations. ment of, trees and other woody plants.

50.4.3 Performance shall comply with applicable 52.2 arborist trainee: An individual undergoing
Federal and State Occupational Safety and Health on-the-job training to obtain the experience and
Administration (OSHA) standards, ANSI Z133, the competence required to provide for, or super-
Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide vise the management of, trees and woody plants.
Act (FIFRA), Federal Environmental Protection Such trainees shall be under the direct supervision
Agency (EPA) regulations as well as state and of an arborist.
local regulations.
52.3 conservation: The deliberate retention,
50.4.4 Arborists shall follow appropriate safe work protection, replanting, and management of existing
practices. forests, trees, shrubs, or plants during the develop-
ment process.
51 Normative references
52.4 critical root zone (CRZ): The minimum
The following standards contain provisions which, volume of roots necessary to have for tree health
through reference in this text, constitute provisions and stability.
of this American National Standard. All standards
are subject to revision, and parties to agreements 52.5 crown: Upper part of a tree, measured
based on this American National Standard shall from the lowest branch, including all the branches
apply the most recent edition of the standards indi- and foliage.
cated below.
52.6 development effects: Site development
ANSI Z60, Nursery stock and building construction related actions that have
an affect on the health, structure, stability, or live
ANSI Z117.1, Safety Requirements for Confined parts of trees including roots which may be affect-
Spaces ed by changes to the soil, soil chemistry, or ground
water flow.
ANSI Z133, Arboriculture – Safety Requirements
52.7 drip line: The soil surface delineated by
ASME B30, Cranes, Derricks, Hoists, Hooks, the branch spread of a single plant or group of
Jacks, and Slings. plants.

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ANSI
A300 (Part 5)-2012

52.8 root protection zone (RPZ): The soil area 52.20 tree protection zone (TPZ): The area sur-
surrounding a tree defined by a specified measure- rounding a tree defined by a specified distance, in
ment, in which excavation, compaction, and other which excavation and other construction - related
construction-related activities should be avoided or activities should be avoided. The TPZ is variable
mitigated. The RPZ may extend beyond the tree depending on species, factors, age and health of
protection zone (TPZ). the plant, soil conditions, and proposed construc-
tion. The zone may be accomplished by physical
52.9 rootzone: The volume of soil containing barriers or soil protection layers or treatments.
the roots of a plant.
52.21 tree protection zone barriers: Devices
52.10 shall: As used in this standard denotes a such as fencing, berms, or signage installed to
mandatory requirement. define and limit access to tree protection zones, or
soil protection layers, as appropriate to accomplish
52.11 should: As used in this standard denotes the tree protection plan.
an advisory recommendation.
52.22 tree resource evaluation: A written docu-
52.12 site survey: A map showing relevant, ment describing the tree resources present on the
existing site features and vegetation on a site pro- site and adjacent properties encroaching on the
posed for development. project site, with information collected or provided
from an inventory or survey such as: tree species,
52.13 specifications: A detailed, measurable size, location, condition, plant community, struc-
plan or proposal for performing a work activity or ture, health, and population estimate.
providing a product, usually a written document.
52.23 tree survey: A map or plan with a list and
52.14 standard, ANSI A300: The performance description of trees within all or a portion of the
parameters established by industry consensus as project area and adjacent areas encroaching on
a rule for the measure of extent, quality, quantity, the project area, based on defined criteria, such as
value or weight used to write specifications. location, species, or tree size.

52.15 suitability for conservation: A relative 53 Management of trees and shrubs

rating system that combines tree health and struc- during site planning, site development,
ture with species tolerance of development activi- and construction practices
ties.
53.1 Objectives
52.16 tree inventory: A comprehensive list of
individual trees containing descriptive and desired Objectives for managing and conserving trees and
information for all or a portion of the project area. shrubs on a construction or development site shall
be established.
52.17 tree management report: A comprehen-
sive report listing the needs and recommendations 53.1.1 The objectives shall be defined based on
for treatment of individual trees or groups of trees context, the intended use of the site, and scope of
on a construction site or adjacent site. the assignment.

52.18 tree preservation (conservation) ordi- 53.1.2 Objectives should include, but are not lim-
nance: A local requirement defining the retention, ited to, one or more of the following:
protection, management, and mitigation of trees Determining the tree resources present on
within a community, or on a construction or devel- a development site prior to planning
opment site. and design;
Conserving the benefits that trees provide
52.19 tree protection plan: A written directive including energy conservation, air
included in the construction plans and specifica- quality, shade, natural elements, and
tions to control work around protected trees during character;
all phases of the project. Avoiding damage to the trees to be con-
served, including physical contact, grade

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 ANSI
A300 (Part 5)-2012

changes, and soil compaction; relevant features on the site and trees with roots
Improving coordination of existing trees and canopies of adjacent trees and considering
with new landscape designs; the proposed use of the site.
Developing long term management plans
for new and existing plants; 53.3.7 Specifications, methods, and practices to
Minimizing conflicts between trees and mitigate tree and site conditions should comply
new hardscape and buildings; and with existing ordinances or requirements.
Conserving trees.
53.3.8 Tree resource evaluation scope
53.2 The management of trees and shrubs shall
be incorporated into the following different phases 53.3.8.1 The scope of the tree resource evalua-
of the site development process: tion shall be established.
Planning;
Design; 53.3.8.2 Trees adjacent to the site that will be
Pre-construction; impacted by the construction or may affect the
Construction; construction activity should be included in the
Landscape; and, resource evaluation.
Post-construction.
53.3.8.3 If a condition is observed requiring
attention beyond the original scope of the tree
53.3 Planning Phase
resource evaluation, the condition shall be report-
ed to an immediate supervisor, the owner, project
Purpose: The planning phase includes the initial
manager, or the person responsible for authorizing
site evaluation where trees on the existing site are
the work.
surveyed, located, and evaluated for their health,
longevity, and benefits to the site. This information
53.3.9 Tree resource conservation
is used in deciding which trees are best candidates
for conservation, and should be reviewed before
decisions on site design are considered. 53.3.9.1 The arborist shall communicate the
tree resources present on the site as found in the
53.3.1 A resource evaluation should be conduct- tree resource evaluation.
ed for all the trees on the site or at minimum, the
trees in the proposed development area. 53.3.9.2 The arborist shall note the trees’ func-
tion in the ecosystem, the incentives for conserva-
53.3.1.1 The trees within all, or the affected tion, and mitigation potential for the site.
portion of, the project area and adjacent areas
encroaching on the project area should be includ- 53.3.9.3 The existing tree canopy and pro-
ed based on defined criteria, such as species, posed tree canopy shall include recommendations
size, condition, spacing, and structure. for adequate space for the trees to be retained or
planted.
53.3.2 The evaluation data should be integrated
into the site design. 53.3.9.4 Trees adjacent to the site that will be
impacted by the construction or may affect the
53.3.3 The site survey should locate the trees on construction activity should be included in resource
the site plan or map. conservation.

53.3.4 Trees that are candidates for retention and 53.3.9.5 Suitability ratings for tree conservation
incorporation into the site design should be identi- should be assigned; see Annex A-2.
fied.
53.4 Design phase
53.3.5 Landscape and site plans should incorpo-
rate the trees and areas to be retained and pro- Purpose: The purpose of including trees in the
tected. design phase is to review the trees found to be
worthy of conservation on the site and determine
53.3.6 An arborist or other qualified person shall how they can be incorporated into the new site
complete the tree resource evaluation showing all design and shown on the plans.

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ANSI
A300 (Part 5)-2012

53.4.1 A tree management report/plan shall be phase is to assure that all parties involved in the
developed for trees to be conserved on the site. site development and construction are aware of
the tree conservation plans, tree protection plans,
53.4.2 The tree management report/plan should goals of the tree conservation, construction prac-
include an evaluation of impacts on trees and tices to follow, and penalties for non-compliance.
shrubs from proposed site development and con-
struction; see Annex A. 53.5.1 Tree protection plans, objectives and spec-
ifications shall be communicated to the project
53.4.3 Tree conservation manager, property owner, and the contractors.

53.4.3.1 Tree conservation should be integrat- 53.5.2 Tree protection zone barrier(s) shall be
ed with the site development plan. Documentation installed prior to any activities performed on the
should include and is not limited to locations of: site that may impact the root zone or above
a. trees to be retained; ground parts of the tree.
b. tree and root protection zones;
c. tree protection zone barriers; 53.6 Construction phase
d. tree protection plans;
e. soil erosion controls; Purpose: The purpose of the construction phase
f. soil compaction controls; is to verify that all the tree protection is in place
g. staging and storage areas; and followed during the construction work.
h. existing and proposed utilities; and,
i. other on-site activities. 53.6.1 Implementation of the tree protection plans
shall be monitored by an arborist.
53.4.3.1.1 Level 1 assessment methodology shall
be specified. 53.6.2 Levels of compliance shall be documented
and reported to the project manager or owner,
53.4.3.2 Tree conservation should be imple- owner’s agent, or controlling authority as required
mented at appropriate times for tree retention and in the scope of work.
the development of the site.
53.6.3 Tree health and condition should be moni-
53.4.3.2.1 Consequences for non-compliance tored during the construction phase.
shall be specified.
53.6.4 In the event of damage to barriers or trees,
53.4.3.2.2 Mitigation measures shall be identified. the damage should be reported, documented, and
corrective measures specified and implemented as
53.4.4 The construction plans and specifications required in the scope of work.
shall include a tree protection plan and details.
53.7 Landscape phase
53.4.5 Grading and demolition plans should detail
all relevant site features. Purpose: The purpose of the landscape phase is
to ensure that all the tree protection practices fol-
53.4.6 Grading and demolition plans shall denote lowed throughout the construction process are fol-
all trees to be retained and removed. lowed during the installation of landscape features,
irrigation, and plants, or amended to maintain
53.4.7 Grading and demolition plans shall include appropriate tree protection while allowing for
tree protection plans for working around trees to defined landscaping activities.
be retained.
53.7.1 Tree conservation measures shall be in
53.4.8 Tree protection measures shall be in place place during the installation of the landscape, irri-
before any grading or demolition work begins. gation, and lighting.

53.5 Pre-construction phase 53.7.2 Tree protection plans shall be implement-

ed through site landscape and lighting installation.
Purpose: The purpose of the pre-construction

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 ANSI
A300 (Part 5)-2012

53.7.3 Levels of compliance should be document- 53.8.2.3 Responsibility for maintenance and
ed and reported by the project arborist. care should be transferred with the property when
ownership changes hands.
53.7.3.1 The project manager shall be made
aware of non-compliance with the tree protection 53.8.3 Tree health and condition should be moni-
plan. tored for a specified period following construction.

53.8 Post-construction phase 53.8.4 Post-construction treatments and monitor-

ing shall be specified according to factors such as,
Purpose: The purpose of the post-construction but not limited to:
phase is to recognize that trees may change as The extent of construction activities,
their sites change and to ensure that any specifica- Tree protection plan;
tions for continuing care and monitoring of the con- Compliance with the tree protection plan;
served trees are acknowledged and followed. and
Consideration that most tree damage is
53.8.1 Continuing care shall be specified accord- not easily detected until years after
ing to changes in tree health and condition. construction.
53.8.2 A remedial and long-term maintenance
53.8.5 An appropriate layer of organic mulch
plan should be specified for both existing and new
should be applied to as much of the TPZ as possi-
landscaping to specify the level of care to be pro-
ble to conserve soil moisture and tree health.
vided and to guide maintenance over the life of the
project.
53.8.5.1 The mulch should be spread in a man-
53.8.2.1 Specifications for remedial and post- ner that avoids soil compaction.
construction care should consist of, but are not lim-
ited to, one or more of the following: 53.8.6 Temporary irrigation shall be considered
Soil moisture management; before, during, and after excavation and trenching
Mulching; within the TPZ to mitigate stress from water loss.
Integrated pest management;
Pruning (see ANSI A300 Part 1 – Pruning 53.8.6.1 Irrigation method and schedules
standard); should consider soil profile and conditions, topog-
Thinning and spacing of new landscape; raphy, climate, time of year, species, extent of root
Monitoring period, including length and loss and tree health.
frequency;
Nutrient management (see ANSI A300 53.8.6.2 Installation of irrigation systems shall
Part 2 – Soil Management standard); be designed and installed to provide water to
Maintenance/removal of tree support sys remaining roots within the TPZ.
tems (see ANSI A300 Part 3 –
Supplemental Support Systems stan 54 Tree protection practices prior to
dard); and, and during demolition, construction, and
Lightning protection (see ANSI A300 Part 4 landscaping
– Lightning Protection Systems standard).
54.1 Objectives for tree protection during con-
53.8.2.1.1 Pruning shall not be performed to struction shall be specified.
compensate for root loss.
54.1.1 Specifications should include, but are not
53.8.2.1.2 Pruning should be performed to limited to one or more of the following:
reduce windsail when considered necessary. Avoid/minimize the physical loss of soil
and roots that will compromise the
53.8.2.2 Long-term tree and landscape mainte- health and structural stability of trees;
nance plans should be included in CC&R’s Avoid compaction and soil structure dam-
(covenants, conditions and restrictions), deeds, age that will compromise the health of
and permit conditions. the trees;
Maintain root zone conditions favorable for

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ANSI
A300 (Part 5)-2012

root function, growth, and develop- 54.7.2 Warning signs shall be posted to alert
ment; equipment operators and contractors about the
Minimize changes to the ground water flow protected status of the TPZ.
or supply; and,
Direct root growth away from infrastructure 54.7.3 Activities within the TPZ that compact the
or use methods and materials to mini- soil or physically damage roots shall be avoided or
mize root and infrastructure conflict. mitigated.

54.2 Written plans outlining tree protection 54.8 Barriers

measures (tree protection plan) shall be prepared
by a qualified arborist. 54.8.1 Fencing or other barriers to the TPZ shall
be installed prior to site clearing, grading and dem-
54.3 The tree protection plan should be com- olition, and maintained through construction and
pleted prior to site design and plan development landscaping.
and included on construction plans.
54.8.2 Specifications for barriers should include,
54.3.1 The tree protection plan shall begin with but are not limited to:
the tree survey and tree resource evaluation. The type of fencing;
Other barriers;
54.3.2 The tree protection plan shall be devel- Manner of installation; and,
oped in coordination with the proposed grading, Conditions for encroachment into the TPZ.
demolition, excavation, utilities, construction and
landscaping plans. 54.8.3 When the soil or root area needs to be
protected, protection should be accomplished
54.4 The arborist shall review preliminary grad- using methods that avoid compaction and soil dis-
ing, demolition, excavation, utilities, construction ruption.
and/or landscaping plans.
54.8.4 When areas within a tree’s TPZ cannot be
54.5 The arborist shall communicate all tree fenced, alternative methods to protect the tree and
protection specifications clearly to all persons soil shall be developed.
involved in the development process.
54.9 Demolition
54.6 A pre-construction meeting shall be held to
communicate the objectives of the tree protection 54.9.1 Restrictions regarding demolition methods
plan. and the location, type and size of equipment on
soil and within the TPZ shall be included in the
54.7 A tree protection zone (TPZ) shall be tree protection plan.
delineated around all trees to be protected during
a project. 54.9.2 Clearing of vegetation within the TPZ shall
be performed manually.
54.7.1 The area and dimensions of the TPZ
should be calculated on the basis of species toler- 54.9.3 Soil protection measures shall be taken
ance, age, and health, root structure, rooting depth while working within the TPZ of trees.
and soil conditions.
54.9.4 Soil protection measures shall be in place
54.7.1.1 Arborists should specify a distance of prior to vehicle and heavy equipment traffic in the
6 to 18 times the trunk diameter (DBH) depending TPZ.
on species tolerance to root loss, tree age and
health. 54.9.5 Routes should be established that direct
traffic around the TPZ.
54.7.1.2 When the distance of 6 to 18 times the
trunk diameter (DBH) cannot be met, appropriate 54.9.6 Equipment and methods used to clear
mitigation or determination that the work will not vegetation adjacent to the TPZs shall be specified
impact tree health and stability shall be performed. to avoid damage to the tree and to the soil.

14 © Tree Care Industry Association, Inc. All rights reserved www.tcia.org

 ANSI
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54.9.7 The appropriate equipment and methods and storing toxic materials, and shall avoid flow,
to address the specific site conditions shall be leakage, or seepage into the TPZ.
used to avoid soil compaction.
54.11 Fill soil (grade change)
54.9.8 When removing pavement within the TPZ,
damage to tree roots shall be minimized. 54.11.1 Fill within the TPZ should not be permitted
unless mitigated in a way to maintain suitable air
54.9.8.1 Pavement removal equipment should and water availability to existing roots.
be positioned on undisturbed pavement, soil pro-
tection surface within the TPZ, or outside the TPZ. 54.11.2 Fill outside the TPZ shall not significantly
affect drainage around the tree. If water is directed
54.9.9 Stump removal shall be performed in a towards the TPZ and tree, measures should be
manner that limits disturbance to the roots of trees taken to divert or control surface flow.
to be retained.
54.11.3 When fill within the TPZ cannot be avoid-
54.9.9.1 Stumps with roots entangled with the ed, soil texture, depth, and compaction shall be
roots of trees designated for retention should be specified to minimize impact to the tree.
ground shallow or cut low and mulched.
54.11.4 Compaction of fill within the TPZ should be
54.9.10 The movement and/or parking of vehicles avoided. If compaction of fill is required within the
and equipment within the TPZ shall be prohibited TPZ, an alternative fill material or construction
unless sufficient measures are taken to prevent method shall be considered.
soil compaction and contamination.
54.11.5 When fill must be placed within the TPZ, a
54.9.11 The pruning or removal of trees adjacent well installation shall be considered around the
to a TPZ shall be performed by a qualified arborist trunk flare area. The minimum radius of the well
to avoid damage to remaining trees. should be at least 24 inches (61 cm) away from
the trunk flare. A method that avoids severing but-
54.9.12 When permitted, burning of brush and tress roots and lateral roots during well construc-
woody debris shall be in designated areas using tion should be specified; see figure 54.11.5.
methods to protect conserved trees from damage
(i.e., damage caused by by-products such as
54.12 Excavation/Trenching
smoke, sparks, and heat).

54.9.13 Soil, construction materials, petroleum 54.12.1 Design changes or alternative building
products, water, toxic building wastes, building methods shall be considered to avoid root loss due
refuse, equipment, and vehicles shall not be stored to excavation, soil compaction, and trenching with-
within the TPZ. in the TPZs of trees designated for retention.

54.9.14 Protection measures shall be in place 54.12.2 Where structural footings are required
before soil, construction materials, petroleum prod- within the TPZ, alternative building methods, such
ucts, water, toxic building wastes, building refuse, as discontinuous footings, piers and structural
equipment, and vehicles are stored adjacent to the grade beams, should be used to minimize the
TPZ. need for root pruning.

54.10 Disposal of building wastes 54.12.3 Grade beams set on footings should not
require excavation of soil to place the beam.
54.10.1 Disposal of building waste products, petro-
leum products, concrete, stucco mix, concrete 54.12.3.1 Fill should not be added on top of soil to
tank-rinse, solvents, paint, etc., shall be performed level or support beams.
in compliance with federal, state, and local regula-
tions and shall not be permitted within the TPZ. 54.12.4 Excavation and construction equipment
shall be selected, positioned, and operated to
54.10.2 Disposal methods and spoil zones shall be avoid damage to tree roots, branches, and trunks.
established for cleaning construction equipment

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ANSI
A300 (Part 5)-2012

54.12.4.1 If clearance is inadequate for equip- 54.13.2 When trenching around roots two-inches
ment access, guying branches upward or pruning (5 cm) in diameter and greater, the least destruc-
to raise the crown should be considered prior to tive methods should be used to minimize damage
beginning excavation and construction work. to specified roots; see Annex D.

54.12.5 Roots should not be ripped or torn during 54.13.3 Utilities should be routed in a common
excavation. trench or grouped as closely as permitted.

54.12.5.1 Roots should be pruned or cut prior to 54.13.4 Utilities should be placed under pavement
excavation to minimize the damage from ripping. areas or as far from the trees as possible to maxi-
mize potential root soil volume.
54.12.5.2 Ripped or damaged roots shall be
exposed using the least injurious method and the 54.14 Pavement
damaged section cut cleanly and relatively perpen-
dicular to the length of the root. 54.14.1 Shallow “no-dig” pavement systems shall
be considered for driveways or patios built near or
54.12.6 Exposed roots should be covered with over the TPZ.
moisture retaining material such as wet burlap, or
moist fill soil, and a covering such as a tarpaulin, 54.14.2 When paving covers more than one-third
to prevent drying of soil and roots. of the TPZ, a permeable paving material should be
used to allow for aeration and water penetration.
54.12.6.1 The covered area should be monitored
and kept moist to avoid root desiccation. 54.14.3 Soil under permeable surfaces should not
be compacted to more than 85 percent Proctor
54.13 Utilities density.

54.13.1 Utilities that cannot be routed around the

TPZ should be installed by tunneling at a depth
adequate to protect the specified roots.

Figure 54.11.5 Adapted with permission from Best Management Practices, Managing Trees During Construction.
2008. Fite, Kelby and Smiley, E. Thomas. Copyright 2008, International Society of Arboriculture, Champaign, IL.

16 © Tree Care Industry Association, Inc. All rights reserved www.tcia.org

 ANSI
A300 (Part 5)-2012

Annex A – Management report information

(This annex is not part of the ANSI A300 Part 5 standard.)

A-1 Some factors to consider when evaluating suitability for conservation (adapted from
N. Matheny and J. Clark. 1998. Trees and Development – A technical guide to tree preserva-
tion during land development. International Society of Arboriculture. Champaign IL)

A-1.1 Tree health

Healthy, vigorous trees are better able to tolerate impacts than are non-vigorous trees. Typical
construction impacts include: root injury, demolition of existing structures, changes in soil grade
and moisture, and soil compaction.

A-1.2 Structural integrity

Trees with significant wood decay and/or other structural defects or conditions that may present
a high failure risk should be carefully evaluated before conserving in areas where high risk of
injury to people or damage to property is likely.

A-1.3 Species response

There is a wide variation in the response of individual species to construction impacts and
changes in the environment.

A-1.4 Tree age and longevity

While having significant emotional, heritage, and aesthetic appeal, old trees may have limited
physiological capacity to adjust to an altered environment. Young trees are better able to gen-
erate new tissue and respond to change. Tree protection may vary based on the age and
importance of a tree to the site.

A-1.5 Cost-benefit analysis

The relationship between cost of conservation and the benefits of the tree should be consid-
ered. The cost to establish a new tree and the time it takes for the tree to grow and produce
the benefits should be compared to the cost of retaining existing trees.

A-1.6 Invasiveness
Native and non-native plants may have invasive characteristics. These characteristics plus
local regulations and guidelines may affect conservation decisions.

A-2 Example of suitability ratings

A-2.1 Good: Trees in this category are in good health and structural stability and have the
potential for longevity at the site.

A-2.2 Moderate: Trees in this category are in fair health and/or have structural defects that
may be mitigated with treatment. These trees may require more intense management and
monitoring, and may have shorter life-spans than those in the “good” category.

A-2.3 Poor: Trees in this category are in poor health or have significant defects in structure
that cannot be mitigated with treatment. These trees can be expected to decline regardless of
management. The species or individual tree may possess characteristics that are uncompatible
or undesirable in landscape settings or be unsuited for the intended use of the site.

A-3: The tree management report should include:

A. tree locations shown on the land survey or plot plan;
B. description of the applicable tree population (information such as: species, size,
condition and replacement value);

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 ANSI
A300 (Part 5)-2012

C. suitability for conservation ratings (Good, Moderate, Poor);

D. limits of construction, including demolition, grading and drainage, site and utility
construction, and landscape plan;
E. evaluation of proposed construction impacts to trees;
F. notes on the proximity of trees to existing and proposed structures, roads, utili-
ties, etc.;
G. recommendations for retention/removal see 53.4.3;
H. recommendations for design changes see 53.4.3;
I. tree conservation recommendations and specifications see 53.4.3; and,
J. post-construction recommendations and specifications.

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 ANSI
A300 (Part 5)-2012

Annex B – Management planning flow chart

(This annex is not part of the ANSI A300 Part 5 standard.)

Development Arborist Development

Phase Responsibility Activity

Planning Site Design Plan

Tree Resource
Evaluation

Site
Design Development
Tree Management Plan
Report

Tree
Pre -
Conservation
Construction Tree Protection Plan,
implementation Plan

Construction Tree Protection Plan,

implementation and Construction
monitoring Project

Landscape
Tree Protection Plan,
monitoring

Post Treatment
Construction Recommendations,
including remedial
and maintenance

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ANSI
A300 (Part 5)-2012

Annex C – Purpose and implementation information

(This annex is not part of the ANSI A300 Part 5 standard.)

C-1 The true value of this standard is in setting the requirements and recommendation for
the sequence of evaluating trees on a site for development and formulating a viable tree con-
servation report.

C-2 Specifications are to be developed using the standard. The standard cannot serve as
specifications because each project and conservation approach will vary depending on species
of tree; soil condition; development objectives; construction/demolition activity; etc.

C-3 Agencies with land or resource preservation or conservation ordinances or tree preser-
vation requirements often require a tree conservation plan to be filed (much like an environ-
mental impact statement) if triggered by specific criteria adopted by the town, city, or jurisdiction
such as number of trees affected; size and species of trees affected; lot size; type/zoning of
development. ANSI A300 Part 5 is the standard for what the required plan should contain.
Actual contents of the plan should also be altered based on the scope of specific projects.

20 © Tree Care Industry Association, Inc. All rights reserved www.tcia.org

 ANSI
A300 (Part 5)-2012

Annex D – Preferred methods to avoid damage to roots

(This annex is not part of the ANSI A300 Part 5 standard.)

When encountering roots two-inches (5 cm) in diameter or greater, the roots should be tunneled
around or bored underneath. The preferred methods available for avoiding damage to the roots
include:

D-1 Hand excavation with tools. When a root is encountered, avoid contact with the root and
excavate around it, leaving it intact.

D-2 Pneumatic excavation. Tools and equipment are available to use compressed and high
pressure air to remove the soil around roots without damaging the larger roots. Proper pressure
and technique are important to reduce damage to roots. Smaller absorbing roots may be dam-
aged during this process, similar to hand excavation.

D-3 Hydraulic excavation. Tools and equipment are available to use high-pressure water to
wash the soil around roots without damaging the larger roots. Proper pressure and technique are
important to reduce damage to roots. Smaller absorbing roots may be damaged during this
process, similar to hand excavation.

D-4 Trenchless pipe installation. Tools and equipment are available to install pipes of vary-
ing diameter under roots without requiring a trench. The depth should be calculated so the
process places the pipes under the roots to be avoided. The trenchless entry points should be
located in an area that avoids root damage. Smaller roots may be damaged during this process,
similar to hand excavation.

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