Frequently asked questions
Q. My tree has a presevation order on it. Am I allowed to have work carried out on it?
Q. I live in a conservation area. Am I allowed to have work carried out on the tree/trees?
A. If a tree has a preservation order placed upon it, or is listed as being within the confines of a conservation area or a SSSI (scenic site of scientific interest), an application needs to be made to the local authority requesting permission for maintenance work to be carried out. This rule also applies if you are looking to remove the tree.
In most cases, the Tree officer for the authority may want to visit to inspect the tree before giving permission for any work to proceed.
We regularly speak with many different authorities on this matter and can carry out the application process for you at no extra cost.
Q. My tree has fungi growing on it. Does this mean the tree has to be removed?
A. No, not necessarily. Removing a tree should always be a last resort. We look at a number of factors when assessing a tree, which is showing signs of decay. For example:
- Type of fungi
- How advanced the decay is
- Size of the tree
- Location of the tree, i.e. near property, public footpath, road
After assessing these factors, we will recommend a course of action which we believe to be suitable. This may include further assessment of the decay using specialist equipment. Based upon these findings, we will recommend only necessary remedial work, which could mean a crown reduction or removal of branches which are cause for concern. In some circumstances this could also include the removal of the tree if the decay is too advanced.
Q. My neighbour has a tree which overhangs my garden. Am I allowed to cut off the offending branches?
A. The answer is yes. However, this all depends on whether the tree is protected or in a conservation area (if it is, see above). If this is not the case, removal of limbs should be cut back to the boundry line using correct pruning cuts. Removal of large branches should only be carried out by qualified professionals in the interest of safety. Any work carried out should not be to the detriment of the tree.
In the interest of being a good neighbour, we would always recommend you discus the problem with the owner of the tree before undertaking any work. If you are lucky your neighbour may even contribute to the cost...