​Cutting Down Trees


What is the law against cutting trees?

The law against cutting trees in the UK is actually quite complex. The protection of timber has been an issue for centuries, and many laws have been passed to protect forests from being taken away by humans. It can be difficult to tell what is illegal and what is not, but we will go through some of the most important questions and parts of the tree legislation acts

If you're thinking about cutting down a tree, we have the answers to your questions. Whether it's safety precautions or preservation laws that are getting in the way of making decisions on what course is best for your property and trees, our guide has information available from expert sources so no one will reach for their chainsaw before they get all necessary facts correct beforehand.


Do I need permission to cut down a tree or remove branches on my property in the UK?

If you own your home, one does not need permission to cut down a tree that is solely in your garden, unless it has been designated as needing preservation through the Tree Preservation Order or Conservation Area. If you are renting a house and cutting down trees on the rented property grounds, then you must first obtain permission from your landlord before undertaking any work of felling. One can always ask neighbours for help with branches which overhang onto neighbouring gardens/property but they are still owned by the owner of the land where the trunk resides so it’s the owners responsibility if anything goes wrong, such as an unexpected direction in which branch falls upon neighbour’s garage, shed or outbuilding for example.


Tree Felling Licence

Where a tree must be felled outside of a private garden, you may need to obtain permission from the relevant government department. If this applies and the trees amount to 5 cubic metres in total volume, it is usually an offence without their consent first. Licences for thinning woodland will most likely come with certain conditions on replanting or maintaining them afterwards for a set timescale. For just thinning woodlands, this will not have a restocking condition attached to the licence. They will make enquiries to see if permission needs to be granted from your local authority. Also please consider the impact this could cause to the surrounding wildlife. Felling and removing trees while the breeding season is in full swing could be stressful for the birds and indeed other wildlife, so make sure that you take this into account and proceed during the winter months.


Is there a legal height for Neighbours trees?

Are you looking for some advice on what to do about the height of your neighbour's trees? There are a few things that you can do. The first thing is to talk with them about it. They may not even realise that they have high tree branches and be more than happy to take care of the problem. If they don't know, then ask them how tall their trees were when they bought the house or moved in. You could also check your local by-laws for information on legal height limits for trees, as this varies depending on where you live and local council rules and regulations.


What can I do if my Neighbours trees are too high and they are ignoring my complaints?

If you are unable to reach an agreement with your neighbours, then contact local authorities as they may be able to help. There is also a possibility that cutting down or trimming the trees might not solve the problem and in this case it would be advisable to consult with a qualified arborist for advice on how best to deal with high tree branches on neighbouring property. You can contact our local tree surgeons at Nottingham Tree Surgery and Arborist Service anytime for a FREE consultation and expert friendly advice for a way forward.


What do you do with dead ash trees?

A lifeless oak or ash can make for an eyesore on any property, so most people would want them removed quickly at all costs-including safety concerns such as unstable limbs. This means having professional tree surgeons handle this job from start to finish. Cutting down branch by branch (known as sectional dismantling) until removing the whole tree without damaging anyone or nearby property when they fall over during the disposal process (due largely to the tree's overall weight and size) The average residential homeowner or business will not have the the right equipment to safely remove these large ash and oak trees. Also if the trees to be felled are dead, they will be brittle with loose bark and could collapse at any time, adding to the danger. This is why they should always be removed by specialist tree surgeons and Arborists.


Is it illegal to cut down trees when birds are nesting?

The bird nesting season is an important time for birds to find a safe place to raise young. Nesting occurs March 1st through July 31 and during this time the surrounding vegetation such as trees and hedges should be left untouched in order not disturb these fragile environments. Although it may seem impractical, there are exceptions that allow work on trees and hedges if done with care so as not to harm any nests or eggs residing nearby. Always keep safety at the top of your mind when running projects near wildlife habitats. To ensure the safety of nesting birds, before any work is carried out in this season a thorough visual survey needs to be completed. In most cases it will have been determined that there are no nesting birds present or if they are then as long as what you're doing doesn't disrupt their nest near your worksite everything should go smoothly and without incident. It's not just about protecting them but also ensuring we protect ourselves by following these guidelines so everyone can coexist peacefully with minimal disturbance for both parties involved.The courts have been clear that the responsibility lies with both contractor and client to be aware of laws protecting nesting birds. For example, if you disturb a bird's nest they may go ahead and delay work until all nests are empty, but this rule is not limited to just certain species of birds, all wild birds, as well as any eggs found in an unoccupied nest, will be protected from disturbance under these rules. This means it becomes your duty also, so make sure before beginning construction on your property that there isn't anything laid by terns or swallows.


Cutting back my neighbours Trees that are encroaching my property?

If you have a neighbour who's tree is overhanging onto your property, cutting back the branches can be as easy as talking to them. If they're happy with it then all that needs doing is trimming away any leaves and debris on their side of the fence or hedge.

The law actually states that any tree branches cut off belong to the person whose land the tree first grew, so good practice id to ask your neighbour if they want them back, or if they don't mind if you go ahead and dispose of them during the process.

When you're trimming your hedge, don't just throw the trimmings back over the boundary. This could constitute 'fly tipping'. Ask your neighbour whether they would like any trimmings back before throwing them away or leaving them by their garden gate for someone else to pick up later.

Also this applies to fruit on trees, even if the fruit on branches which is overhanging onto your property, still by law belongs to your neighbour. So You are indeed stealing if you pick the fruits for yourself without your good neighbours' permission. 



Call Nottingham Tree Surgery and Arborist Services
For a FREE consultation and Free Quotation

0115-824-3203 


Environmental Policy

Nottingham Tree Surgery And Arborist Services is committed to the improvement of conservation and the local environment, and minimising the environmental impacts and risks from all our tree surgery work and activities. arising from its activities. Our professional tree surgeons are trained in all aspects relating to our policy. 


Purpose of the Policy

The purpose of this Environmental Policy is to outline our commitment to minimising the impact of our tree surgery operations on the environment. We aim to carry out our work responsibly, with a focus on sustainable practices. As tree surgeons, we appreciate the vital importance of trees and the environment and are dedicated to taking steps to protect and enhance local biodiversity. The policy serves as a guide to our staff, clients, and stakeholders, demonstrating our pledge to environmental stewardship


Company's Commitment towards Environment

Our company is steadfast in its commitment to the environment. We continuously strive to improve our environmental performance by adopting sustainable work methods, utilising eco-friendly equipment and materials, and minimising waste. Our actions are driven by a deep-rooted respect for the environment and a determination to protect and preserve it for future generations. We actively foster a culture of environmental responsibility among our employees and encourage our clients and stakeholders to join us in this initiative. Furthermore, we are committed to complying with all relevant environmental legislation and regulations, and wherever possible, we seek to exceed these standards.


Sustainable Practices


Use of Eco-friendly Equipment

An integral part of our commitment to environmental stewardship involves the use of eco-friendly equipment. We prioritise equipment that minimizes emissions, reduces noise pollution, and limits damage to the surrounding environment. This includes using battery-powered chainsaws and chippers, low emission vehicles, and biodegradable tree treatments. Furthermore, we ensure that all of our equipment is regularly maintained and serviced to keep it running at peak efficiency, further reducing environmental impact. By investing in and utilising these eco-friendly alternatives, we significantly decrease our carbon footprint, contributing to a healthier, more sustainable planet.


Responsible Waste Management

We regard waste management as a significant aspect of our environmental commitment. We employ responsible and sustainable waste management strategies in all of our operations to reduce waste at its source, promote recycling, and ensure the responsible disposal of tree and vegetation waste. Our tree surgeons are trained to work efficiently, utilizing as much of each tree as possible to minimise waste. We recycle tree waste into wood chips for use in landscaping and gardening, contributing to a circular economy. In situations where recycling is not feasible, we engage reputable waste management companies to ensure environmentally friendly disposal of waste. Through these measures, we exemplify our commitment to responsible waste management, contributing to a cleaner, greener earth.


Recycling Policies

Our company adheres to a stringent recycling policy as part of our environmental commitment. We believe that every part of a tree is valuable and should not be wasted. Therefore, we take great measures to ensure that all the tree waste generated through our operations is recycled for alternative uses. For instance, tree branches, leaves, and bark are processed into mulch for use in landscaping and gardening, while larger tree sections are sawn into logs for use as firewood or building material. The small amount of waste that cannot be recycled is disposed of responsibly by certified waste management companies. We also extend our recycling commitment to our office operations. We prioritize the use of digital communication to minimize paper waste and when the use of paper is inevitable, we ensure it is recycled appropriately. Furthermore, we encourage all of our employees to adopt recycling habits, both at work and in their personal lives, to contribute to wider environmental conservation efforts. This recycling policy is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure we are operating in the most sustainable way possible.


Conservation Efforts


Protection of Wildlife Habitats

Our commitment to the environment extends beyond trees; it encompasses all aspects of local ecology, including wildlife habitats. Recognizing the crucial role trees and other vegetation play in providing habitats for a variety of species, we carry out our work with the utmost caution to avoid disturbing these habitats. Prior to commencing any operation, we conduct thorough surveys to identify any potential wildlife habitats within the area. In cases where habitats are found, we adjust our work methods accordingly, often seeking advice from local wildlife experts to minimize impact. When necessary, we postpone operations to allow for the safe relocation of wildlife. In addition, our company is actively involved in habitat conservation and restoration initiatives, working with local communities and conservation organisations to protect and enhance biodiversity in the regions we operate. A carefully managed approach to wildlife protection underscores our broader commitment to environmental responsibility, augmenting the sustainability of our operations.


Prevention of Unnecessary Tree Removal

Our mission as tree surgeons extends beyond the simple care and maintenance of trees; we advocate for their preservation and protection. We believe that every tree has significant value, contributing not only to the environment but also to the aesthetic and cultural makeup of our communities. Therefore, we adopt a policy of preventing unnecessary tree removal wherever possible. Upon consultation, our experienced arborists carry out comprehensive assessments to determine the health and structural integrity of trees. If a tree is deemed unhealthy or hazardous, we first consider all possible remedial actions, such as targeted pruning or supportive bracing, before resorting to removal. In situations where tree removal is unavoidable, we ensure it is done safely and responsibly, with minimal impact on the surrounding ecosystem. This preventative approach underpins our commitment to maintaining a sustainable and biodiverse environment.


Training and Education


Environmental Awareness for Employees

As part of our ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility, we place utmost importance on the training and education of our employees. We believe that environmental awareness is crucial to the successful implementation of our environmental policies and practices. To this end, all our employees undergo regular training sessions on environmental conservation, sustainable practices, and responsible waste management. This training includes understanding the vital role of trees in our ecosystem, the importance of recycling, and the effects of waste on the environment. Additionally, we encourage our employees to extend these practices into their personal lives, fostering a company culture that values and respects the environment. We also provide opportunities for our employees to participate in environmental workshops and conferences, ensuring they remain updated on the latest developments in environmental conservation. Through these efforts, we ensure that environmental awareness is ingrained in our team, empowering them to act responsibly and make a positive impact on the environment.


Continuous Learning and Improvement

In our quest for environmental sustainability, we recognize that learning is an ongoing process and improvement is a continuous journey. We strive to stay abreast with the latest research, technological advancements, and best practices in tree care and environmental conservation. By actively participating in professional forums, workshops, and industry conferences, we ensure that our team is equipped with up-to-date knowledge and skills. Our company is constantly seeking ways to improve our operations and reduce our environmental footprint. We routinely review and update our policies and practices to reflect new insights and advancements in the field. Furthermore, we welcome feedback from our clients, communities, and industry peers, treating every critique as an opportunity for learning and improvement. This culture of continuous learning and improvement is integral to our commitment towards achieving the highest standards of environmental responsibility in our operations.


Community Engagement


Collaboration with Local Environmental Groups

We firmly believe in the value of collaboration in achieving our environmental objectives. We actively seek partnerships with local environmental groups and organizations, acknowledging their expert knowledge and passion for local ecosystems. These partnerships allow us to better understand environmental challenges specific to the regions we operate in, and develop effective solutions for tree preservation, waste management, and habitat protection. Working together, we participate in tree-planting initiatives, community clean-ups, and environmental education campaigns. We also provide logistical support to these groups, leveraging our resources and expertise to amplify their impact. Furthermore, we regularly consult with these groups on our operational practices, welcoming their insight and feedback to continuously improve our environmental performance. The mutual exchange of ideas and strategies with local environmental groups reinforces our commitment to preserving and enhancing our local ecosystems.


Public Education Initiatives

A key component of our environmental commitment is the education and awareness of the public regarding the importance of tree conservation, biodiversity, and sustainable practices. We regularly organize workshops, seminars, and interactive sessions that provide the general public with information about the vital role of trees in maintaining ecological balance, the process of tree care, and the impact of deforestation on climate change. In addition, we frequently collaborate with schools and colleges to incorporate environmental education into their curriculum, fostering a sense of responsibility and stewardship among younger generations. We also leverage social media platforms and our company website to disseminate educational resources, conserve-at-home tips, and updates on our latest initiatives. Our public education efforts aim not only to inform but also to inspire action, nurturing a community spirit that values and works towards environmental conservation and sustainability.


Monitoring and Review


Regular Review of Environmental Impact

Conducting regular, comprehensive reviews of our environmental impact is a critical aspect of our environmental policy. It allows us to measure the effectiveness of our practices and provides valuable insights for future planning and improvement. We utilize a range of assessment tools and methodologies, including carbon footprint analysis, waste audits, and biodiversity impact assessments, to evaluate the impact of our operations on the environment. The results of these reviews are documented and analyzed to identify trends, challenges, and opportunities for improvement. This data also helps us assess our progress towards our environmental objectives and targets. Any discrepancies between our goals and actual outcomes prompt an in-depth investigation to identify the root causes and formulate appropriate corrective measures. By systematically monitoring and reviewing our environmental impact, we ensure transparency, ongoing improvement, and accountability in our commitment to environmental sustainability.


Adaptation to New Environmental Standards and Practices

Our commitment to environmental sustainability goes beyond adhering to current regulations and standards. We are dedicated to staying ahead of the curve by proactively adapting to emerging environmental standards and practices. As new research uncovers innovative methods for tree care and environmental preservation, we are quick to integrate these findings into our operational strategies. Similarly, as environmental regulations evolve, we ensure our practices not only comply but often exceed these requirements, setting a high bar within our industry. We also provide regular training to our team members, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to implement these new standards and practices effectively. Through this adaptive approach, we strive to constantly improve our environmental performance and contribute to a sustainable future.


In conclusion, our organisation is steadfast in its commitment to environmental sustainability. Every facet of our operations, from our hands-on work with trees to our community engagement and educational initiatives, is designed with a deep respect for our environment. We acknowledge our responsibility as stewards of nature, and continually strive to meet and exceed industry standards for environmental conservation. It is this dedication, alongside our unwavering commitment to continuous learning and improvement, that drives our pursuit for a more sustainable future. We thank our clients, partners, and community members for their support and shared commitment to this mission. Together, we can make a significant difference in the health and resilience of our planet.




Any more questions that you may have about the environmental policy, then please give us a call, as we offer a free Initial consultation to all our customers. We are open for business 24/7 so even if you have an emergency tree situation you know who to call. 


Nottingham Tree Surgery & Arborist Services

O115-824-3203

or

01332-327311

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