Arborist Consulting & Permits
Urban Tree Inventories for Properties in Victoria and Saanich
An urban tree inventory records the location, species, size, condition and risk of the trees on a site. Oakstead Tree & Property Care completes tree inventories in Victoria, Saanich and the Cowichan Valley for development projects and residential, commercial and industrial properties, giving owners data for maintenance planning, tree protection zones, budgets, planting plans and bylaw compliance.
In plain words
A tree inventory records where each tree is and what it is like. It notes species, size, health and risk. Owners use it to plan care, budgets, planting and bylaw needs.
Tree inventories are a vital tool in Urban Forestry and are routinely conducted on development projects involving trees. However, their applications extend far beyond construction sites. Whether for residential, commercial, or industrial properties, tree inventories provide critical insights into tree features, attributes, and values, supporting effective Urban Canopy Management. These assessments involve collecting detailed data, such as species, size, health, and location, which can then be used for determining maintenance needs. By understanding the composition and condition of a property’s trees, tree inventories play a key role in integrating Green Infrastructure & Trees into broader planning efforts.
How inventory data is used
Tree inventory data has numerous applications in Green Infrastructure Planning and property management. It supports Tree Protection Zone (TPZ) Planning and ensures proper Construction Site Tree Protection by documenting trees that require safeguarding during development. The information also aids in prioritizing maintenance activities, justifying budgets, and developing strategic planting plans to enhance and sustain the urban canopy. Additionally, tree inventories are instrumental in improving pest response strategies, documenting management actions, and quantifying the environmental benefits of trees, such as air quality improvement and stormwater management. Whether the goal is to protect existing trees, plan for future growth, or comply with regulations, tree inventories are essential for creating sustainable, tree-focused solutions.
Common goals of an inventory
Goals of an inventory can vary widely depending on the need, but commonly include:
- A tally of trees & shrubs (or other features) – often a numbering of trees.
- Attributes – species, quality, and characteristics of the trees & shrubs (i.e. diameter, condition)
- Risk assessments
- Reporting
- Management Plans (pruning or other maintenance needs)
If you’d like to just get the conversation started, or want to schedule a viewing of your trees in the Saanich and Victoria area, please give us a call at (250) 888-9222 or request a consultation online through the request form on our Get a Quote page, and we’ll get right back to you.
Urban Tree Inventory: frequently asked questions
What is included in a tree inventory?
A tree inventory typically includes a numbered tally of trees and shrubs, attributes such as species, diameter and condition, and can add risk assessments, reporting and management plans covering pruning or other maintenance needs. Goals vary depending on what the property needs.
Who needs a tree inventory?
Tree inventories are routine for development projects involving trees. They also help stratas, businesses, campuses and larger residential properties. Owners use them to prioritize maintenance, justify budgets and plan new planting. They also help owners respond to pests and document management actions over time.
How is tree inventory data used in development?
On a development site, inventory data identifies which trees need safeguarding and supports tree protection zone planning and construction site tree protection. It also feeds arborist reports and tree maps that many municipalities require with applications.
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