Tender Summary: Removal of Alien Trees (Tree Felling)

Objectives

The primary objective is to appoint a qualified service provider to safely and systematically remove identified alien trees within the Umzimkhulu Local Municipality area. The contract emphasizes environmental compliance, public safety, and sustainable waste management by mandating the recycling or repurposing of harvested timber rather than standard disposal. The engagement operates on a twelve-month fixed-term contract.

Scope of Work

The contractor will manage the complete tree felling lifecycle, including the safe removal of large, hazardous, overgrown, and storm-damaged trees down to below ground level. Responsibilities encompass debris management, reinstatement of disturbed areas, and provision of all specialized tools and machinery. Pricing is structured around four diameter categories (0–200 mm up to 601+ mm) and four height categories (under 5 m up to over 20 m). All-inclusive rates apply within a 40 km radius; operations beyond this threshold incur additional per-kilometer transport charges. The contractor assumes full financial liability for any third-party or municipal property damage incurred during service delivery.

Technical Requirements

Bidders must demonstrate strict compliance with occupational health and safety regulations by submitting a comprehensive safety plan detailing personal protective equipment protocols, incident reporting procedures, and traffic management for works adjacent to roads. An environmental management plan is compulsory, explicitly outlining strategies for timber recycling or repurposing, as landfill disposal is prohibited. Required assets include at least one chainsaw, one crane or cherry picker, and one transport vehicle, all requiring proof of ownership or valid leasing agreements. The evaluation applies an 80/20 preferential procurement system, allocating 80 points to price competitiveness and 20 points to designated socio-economic goals. A minimum technical score of 67% is required, with a strict 50% floor per evaluation segment. Mandatory submissions include Central Supplier Database (CSD) registration, which functions as the national verification portal for supplier legitimacy and tax compliance, and prescribed Municipal Bidding Document (MBD) forms. Falling below the technical thresholds or omitting required documentation results in automatic disqualification.

Skills & Personnel Requirements

The service provider must deploy a fully certified operational team. All site personnel must hold valid Working at Heights certificates. Specialized roles require specific credentials: a Chainsaw Operator Competency Certificate, relevant operating licenses for crane or cherry picker operators, and at least one crew member possessing a current First Aid Certificate. Industry experience is strictly evaluated; bidders must provide verifiable proof of completing a minimum of three similar tree-felling projects between 2021 and 2026. Supporting evidence must include official appointment letters, job cards, purchase orders, and signed reference letters. Non-submission of any required certification or experience documentation will yield zero points for that specific evaluation category.