Tree Policy

Tree Related Enquiry

Policy/ Standard

Response Timescale

Dangerous tree requiring immediate attention

Where a council owned tree is in such a condition that it poses a very high risk to residents or property and has been identified as an emergency situation.

Advice:

If a tree poses an immediate danger it will be made safe as soon as possible.

Signs that may mean that a tree is in such a condition that it may warrant immediate action include:

• Tree is snapped or blown over
• Tree is rocking - roots are damaged
• Tree is uprooted and held up by another tree or building
• A large branch has broken off or is hanging off the tree
• Tree or branch is blocking access to a property • Tree has fallen onto property or vehicle

Signs that may mean that a tree may pose a potential risk to people or property, however the risk does not require an emergency response:

• Tree is dead
• Tree is dying – die back in the crown, fewer leaves
• Bark is loose, falling off
• Fungi growing on or near base of the tree
• Old splits and cracks in the trunk or large branches
• Small branches or twigs falling from a tree

Trees will be made safe via pruning or felling, typically we would employ the most efficient, for certain high value trees we will consider other options to prolong the life of the tree and reducing the risk of failure. 

The council will attend the site as soon as possible to make the situation safe. An emergency is defined as a tree that is in immediate danger of collapse or a tree that is causing an obstruction requiring urgent attention.

The enquiry will be answered within 12 working days of receipt and feedback provided to the customer. If the enquiry requires further research, we will indicate a timescale in the which the customer can expect to receive a full response.

Private Trees a danger to land

Private trees – danger to land other than highways.

The danger posed by trees on private land is principally a matter for the parties to resolve, hence the council should not be considered as the first point of call in attempting to resolve concerns about the danger posed. The Local Authority has powers to require a private individual to make safe a tree via the Local Government Miscellaneous Provisions Act 1976, this will only be used as a last resort.