Protect the tree
before work begins.

Plan before finalizing the layout

Record trees to retain, construction activities that could affect them, and who reviews changes to the plan.

Turn protection into site rules

Mark project-specific protection areas and brief crews before equipment or demolition work arrives.

Respond when roots are exposed

Stop work in the affected spot, protect the area and obtain technical review before work resumes.

Map trees against the work

Compare inventory records with access, grading, drainage, utilities, trenches and construction logistics. Review layout alternatives early; soil compaction and grade changes may affect roots even when the trunk is outside the work zone.

Set a project-specific protection zone

There is no single radius suitable for every tree and site. The plan should consider species, size, condition, observed roots, soil, slope and planned work. A qualified professional should define the dimensions and method for the project.

Control traffic, storage and excavation

Install visible barriers before work starts. Keep vehicles, materials, waste and washout out of protected areas. Do not change grade, dig trenches or cut roots without approval and technical direction. Review utility routes and methods before excavation.

Inspect after construction

Before removing barriers, check for damage to soil, trunk and canopy, remove debris, document incidents and arrange follow-up when required by the project plan.

Technical limits and references

This guide summarizes planning practices; it does not set a universal protection distance or authorize tree work. ISA and ANSI A300 are professional references developed in the United States; they do not replace Brazilian law, permits or the competent authority’s guidance.

• ISA, Managing Trees During Construction, 3rd ed. (2023) — guidance across planning, design, preconstruction, construction, landscaping and post-construction.
• TCIA, ANSI A300 Part 5 — tree management during site planning and construction.
• Shi et al., Science of the Total Environment (2023) — review of urban tree-root damage and prevention measures.