Vegetation management plan (VMP)

Blue dam surrounded by grass and vegetation with blue sky reflecting off of the dam assessed for a vegetation management plan VMP

What is a Vegetation Management Plan?

A Vegetation Management Plan (VMP), is a report document that addresses the on-going management requirements of native vegetation (trees, shrubs and ground cover) within a proposed development site.

Most Sydney Councils and many Regional NSW Councils require a VMP report from the developer as part of the Development Application (DA) process. Property subdivisions, building construction, extensions, and rezoning all usually require a VMP, especially if the development is within close proximity to a natural drainage line.

Preparation of a VMP is a legal obligation under the NSW Water Management Act 2000.

Biodiversity/bushland management plans are also known as:

  • Biodiversity Management Plans

  • Bushland Management Plans

  • Conservation Management Plans

  • Vegetation Rehabilitation Plans

We want to help you achieve DA approval!


The NSW Department of Water require a VMP from any person who undertakes controlled activities (eg. development, construction or earthworks) on ‘waterfront land’. This definition includes not just ocean view property, but any property in close proximity to a natural water body, such as a lake, river or any mapped drainage line.

Preparation of a VMP is a legal obligation under the NSW Water Management Act 2000.

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Creek running through frosty landscape with green trees surrounding creek and fog in the background assessed for a vegetation management plan VMP

What is included in a Vegetation Management Plan?

A Vegetation Management Plan should include the following:

  • Description of the Subject Site that will be managed under the VMP. This includes a map of the site;

  • Management Zones which are areas of the site that differ in features or intended land use. This includes a description of each Management Zone with aims and objectives, recommended actions, photographs, and a detailed map;

  • Performance Criteria which may be in the form of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). These are used to objectively measure the successful implementation of the aims of the VMP;

  • Defined monitoring and reporting methods;

  • Time frame for implementation and monitoring (often over the course of 5 years, but may vary by Council);

  • Maintenance requirements; and

  • Any additional information required to implement the VMP.

A Vegetation Management Plan must be prepared by a qualified environmental or ecological consultant such as Narla Environmental.


Contact Narla Environmental to receive a free, industry-competitive quote for your Vegetation Management Plan!

We service the whole of New South Wales, including Greater Sydney, Western Sydney, Central Coast, Newcastle, Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley, Wollongong and Illawarra, Southern Highlands, Eurobodalla, Shoalhaven, Port Macquarie, North Coast, Central West and the rest of regional New South Wales.

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