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What Is Tree Protection Zone?

A Tree Protection Zone (TPZ) is a designated area around a tree’s critical root zone and canopy that is protected from disturbance during construction, grading, or site work. These zones are designed to safeguard the tree’s structural integrity, health, and long-term survival by preventing damage from heavy machinery, soil compaction, trenching, or material storage.

At Kolcun Tree Care, our ISA Certified Arborists design Tree Protection Zones for commercial, municipal, and HOA-managed properties. We follow industry best practices and local ordinance requirements to create plans that preserve valuable trees while allowing development to proceed efficiently.

Why Do You Need Tree Protection Zone?

Tree Protection Zones help protect valuable landscape assets, maintain compliance, and support sustainable site development.

Prevent Costly Tree Loss

Protects roots, trunks, and canopies from damage that could result in decline, structural instability, or removal.

Meet Permit and Ordinance Requirements

Ensures your project complies with municipal tree preservation laws and avoids costly delays or fines.

Support Sustainability Goals

Preserving mature trees enhances property value, reduces heat, improves stormwater control, and maintains community appeal.

Components of Tree Protection Zone

Our comprehensive approach ensures your trees receive the best care possible:
01.

Site-Specific TPZ Design

We evaluate species, size, condition, and site layout to determine optimal protection boundaries based on critical root zones.

02.

Physical Barrier Installation

Durable fencing, signage, and buffer materials clearly mark protected areas and prevent accidental intrusion by crews or equipment.

03.

Compliance Documentation

We provide the necessary documentation and mapping for municipal approval, permitting, and HOA records.

04.

Ongoing Monitoring and Enforcement

Regular site visits ensure Tree Protection Zones remain intact and effective throughout the construction process.

How to Request Tree Protection Zone?

Contact our team through the website or call us directly at 843-757-8050. We'll schedule a consultation to assess your trees and recommend a pruning plan tailored to your property's needs.

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Tree Protection Zone FAQs

Comprehensive strategies to safeguard trees during construction, ensuring long-term health and compliance for commercial landscapes
  • Are Tree Protection Zones required by local regulations?
    Many municipalities mandate Tree Protection Zones for commercial projects, especially when working around heritage or high-value trees. Documentation from an ISA Certified Arborist can be submitted with development plans to meet code requirements. Compliance not only avoids fines but also helps protect the property’s long-term landscape value.


  • Can ignoring a Tree Protection Zone harm the tree?
    Yes. Root damage, soil compaction, and trunk injury caused by encroachment into a TPZ can lead to reduced stability, disease vulnerability, and eventual tree loss. Even heavy pruning outside of the guidelines—without professional tree trimming oversight—can stress a tree already impacted by construction activity.


  • Do Tree Protection Zones work for both commercial and residential properties?
    Absolutely. While they are most common in large-scale commercial development, TPZs are equally valuable for protecting trees during residential construction, driveway installation, or major landscaping. The science behind protection is the same, whether you are investing in commercial preservation measures or residential tree pruning services.


  • How do Tree Protection Zones affect project timelines and budgets?
    While establishing a TPZ may require upfront planning and coordination, it can prevent costly tree removals, landscape replacements, and liability claims later. In many cases, maintaining mature trees increases property value and enhances curb appeal, reducing the need for extensive replanting. Partnering with an ISA Certified Arborist ensures these benefits are realized without unnecessary delays.


  • How is a Tree Protection Zone enforced during a construction project?
    Enforcement usually involves physical barriers like fencing, clear signage, and strict access control to prevent equipment, vehicles, and foot traffic from entering. During active construction, an ISA Certified Arborist can perform regular inspections to ensure no activities within the zone compromise soil health or root stability. These steps align with best practices in both commercial tree care and residential tree pruning services.


  • What is a Commercial Tree Protection Zone and why is it important?

    A Commercial Tree Protection Zone (TPZ) is a designated area around a tree’s trunk and root system established to prevent damage during construction, landscaping, or property maintenance. This zone is critical for preserving tree health by protecting roots, soil structure, and canopy integrity. An ISA Certified Arborist can design and enforce a TPZ to ensure that mature trees remain stable and healthy for decades after development.

  • What other services complement a Tree Protection Zone plan?
    A strong TPZ strategy is often paired with pre- and post-construction tree care, such as root pruning, soil aerification, and professional tree trimming. Regular monitoring by an ISA Certified Arborist ensures trees remain healthy throughout the project and for years afterward. These services work together to preserve both the structural safety and aesthetic appeal of the property’s trees.


  • Who determines the boundaries of a Commercial Tree Protection Zone?
    Only trained professionals, such as an ISA Certified Arborist, should define a TPZ. They calculate the protected radius based on the tree’s species, age, health, and root spread. This approach is far more accurate than a general estimate, ensuring the zone truly safeguards root systems and eliminates the risk of future decline—just as professional tree trimming considers species-specific needs.


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