Trees we manage
We manage trees located on:
- public highways and verges
- parks and open spaces
- council-owned land and housing estates
We prioritise work on trees that are:
- dangerous
- dead or dying
- diseased
- causing an obstruction to public roads or footpaths
We also carry out planned maintenance and replacement planting to improve tree cover across the borough, especially in areas with low tree density.
Trees we don't manage
We do not manage trees that are:
- on private land or in private gardens
- within the boundaries of privately owned developments
- affecting private views, light, or TV reception
- interfering with telephone or utility cables (these are the responsibility of the service provider)
If a tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or is located in a Conservation Area, you must get permission before carrying out any work. Contact our Landscape Planning & Conservation team for advice.
How we manage trees
We manage trees to ensure public safety, protect biodiversity, and enhance the local environment. Our approach includes:
- regular inspections and risk assessments
- prioritising urgent work on hazardous trees
- planting new trees to increase canopy cover
- protecting trees during development through planning controls
- enforcing tree protection legislation, including TPOs and planning conditions
We follow national best practice, including British Standard 5837:2012, to ensure trees are protected during construction and development.
For more information you can read our Trees and Development Guidelines
Report a tree problem
All tree work is carried out by trained professionals using specialist equipment.
You can report issues such as:
- Dangerous or fallen trees - If a tree has fallen or is causing an immediate hazard please contact the police on 101, or 999 in an emergency
- Blocked street lights - If a tree is blocking a street light, please report a street lighting issue
- Damaged pavements or roads - If a tree is making a pavement or road uneven, please report a highway, road or footpath concern
- Tree maintenance - If a tree on council-managed land is damaged, dead, diseased, or needs pruning, please report a horticulture, trees, park or communal issue