Are you looking for how to get council to cut trees in UK? Trees play a vital role in enhancing the beauty of public spaces, improving air quality, and providing habitats for wildlife.

However, there are times when trees can become a nuisance or even a danger, which raises the need for them to be cut or trimmed. If you’re dealing with a tree that’s causing issues in your area, you might be wondering how to get the local council to take action.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the reasons for requesting tree maintenance, the steps to submit your request, and what to expect from the council in the UK.

Why Might You Need the Council To Cut Trees?

There are several common reasons to ask the council to cut or trim trees:

• Safety Concerns: Trees that are damaged, diseased, or at risk of falling.
• Blocking Light: Overgrown trees may block natural sunlight from entering homes or gardens.
• Property Damage: Tree roots or branches causing damage to buildings, fences, or utility lines.
• Obstructing Roads or Pavements: Trees that block walkways or roads, creating hazards for pedestrians and vehicles.

Step-by-Step Guide: How To Request the Council to Cut or Trim Trees?

If you’ve determined that a tree needs to be cut or trimmed, it’s time to submit a formal request to the council. Here’s how to go about it.

Step 1: Identify If the Tree Is Council-Owned

The first step is to check whether the tree in question is located on council property. In the UK, councils are responsible for trees on public land, such as parks, streets, and communal areas.

However, they won’t take action on trees located on private property.

• Check Council Websites: Many local councils provide maps or information on public lands that they manage. If the tree is located on or near a public space, it’s likely council-owned.
• Verify with the Council: If you’re unsure, contact your local council directly and provide the location of the tree. They can confirm if the tree falls under their jurisdiction.

Step 2: Submit a Tree Maintenance Request

Once you’ve confirmed that the tree is on council land, the next step is to submit a formal request for tree maintenance.

Most councils provide online forms to make this process simple and straightforward.

• Locate the Form: Visit your local council’s website and find the relevant page for tree maintenance or reporting a problem with a tree.
• Provide Details: Be specific about the issue. Include the location of the tree, the nature of the problem (e.g.,  to clear overgrown branches, blocking sunlight, posing a safety hazard), and any supporting evidence such as photos.
• State the Reason for the Request: Explain why the tree needs to be cut or trimmed. Use clear reasons such as safety concerns, property damage, or obstruction.

Step 3: Use Council Tree Reporting Tools

Some local councils provide additional tools, such as apps or interactive maps, to make the process even easier.

• Upload Photos: If the reporting tool allows it, upload pictures of the tree and the issue you’re facing. This visual evidence can help the council assess the urgency of the situation.
• Provide GPS Location: For larger councils, using GPS coordinates or specific addresses can ensure they locate the tree quickly.

Step 4: Follow Up on Your Request

After submitting your request, it’s important to keep track of the status.

• Wait for a Response: Councils typically acknowledge receipt of your request within a few days, but the actual response time can vary depending on the urgency of the issue.
• Contact the Council: If you don’t receive a response or update within a reasonable time (usually two weeks), you may want to follow up by calling or emailing the council to check the progress of your request.

What is the Council’s Tree Removal Policy?

Local councils follow specific guidelines when deciding to cut or trim trees:

• Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs): Some trees are protected by law and cannot be cut without special permission unless there’s a safety concern.
• Council Priorities: The council prioritises cutting trees that pose risks to public safety, while trees that benefit the environment or landscape are usually preserved.
• Response Time: For urgent safety issues, councils may respond quickly, but non-urgent requests (like overgrown trees) may take several weeks.

What Happens If the Council Refuses to Cut the Tree?

It’s possible that the council may refuse your request to cut or trim the tree, especially if it’s protected or deemed not to pose a significant risk.

Understanding the Refusal

Common reasons for refusal include:

• TPO Protection: The tree is protected and cannot be removed unless there’s a severe safety risk.
• Minimal Risk: The council might determine that the tree does not pose enough of a risk to warrant cutting or trimming.

Filing an Appeal or Raising Further Concerns

If your request is denied, you may have the option to file an appeal or provide additional evidence. For example, you might need to:

• Document Further Issues: Keep track of any ongoing or worsening problems, such as cracks in your walls caused by tree roots.
• Seek Professional Advice: Sometimes, involving a tree expert or arborist to assess the situation can help build a stronger case.

What If the Tree Is on Private Land?

If the tree that’s causing an issue is located on private property, the council may not be able to intervene directly. However, there are still steps you can take.

Overhanging Trees From Private Property

If branches from a neighbour’s tree are overhanging your property and causing problems, you have the legal right to trim the branches up to the boundary of your property. However, you must return the cut branches to your neighbour, as they remain their property.

Can the Council Help With Private Land Trees?

In some cases, if a tree on private land poses a significant risk to public safety, the council may be able to step in. They can issue notices to the landowner to carry out maintenance or, in extreme cases, enforce action to remove the hazard.

Conclusion

Getting the council to cut or trim trees in UK involves following a clear process that starts with determining whether the tree is council-owned and submitting a formal request.

By understanding the council’s policies, prioritising safety concerns, and keeping track of your request, you can ensure that the issue is handled efficiently and effectively.

Remember, trees play a crucial role in our environment, so it’s essential to balance your concerns with the need to preserve green spaces.

Table: Types of Tree Requests vs. Response Times

Type of Request	Expected Response Time
Urgent Safety Concern	2-5 days
Overgrown Trees Blocking Light	2-4 weeks
Property Damage	1-3 weeks
Non-Urgent Trimming Request	4-12 weeks

FAQs On How To Get Council To Cut Trees

1. How long does it take for the council to respond to a tree cutting request?

The council typically responds within two weeks for non-urgent requests, but urgent safety concerns may receive a response within a few days.

2. What do I do if the tree is blocking sunlight?

You can submit a request to the council, stating how the overgrown tree is affecting your light. The council will assess whether the tree is causing a significant obstruction.

3. Are all trees protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)?

No, only specific trees or woodlands are protected under TPOs. These are usually trees of particular environmental, historical, or aesthetic value.

4. Can I cut down a council-owned tree myself?

No, it is illegal to cut or trim council-owned trees without permission. Always go through the proper channels by contacting the council.