Cutting down a tree should be given careful consideration. We should all aim to preserve trees wherever possible if they are safe and healthy. That’s why it’s a good idea to get a professional tree surgeon involved, who may recommend some well-targeted pruning instead. However, there are some circumstances in which tree cutting is the best option, where it’s become a safety hazard or diseased.
Before tree felling, you must understand tree cutting permissions in the UK, as preservation laws can be complex. Here are the key points to know.
Do you need permission to cut down a tree?
Tree cutting permissions will differ depending on the tree’s location and land ownership. For example, felling trees in your own garden is usually permitted unless there’s a TPO in place or you live in a conservation area.
When it comes to your neighbour’s trees, you can only cut back anything crossing onto your property, like overhanging branches, although your neighbour still owns the clippings.
If you’re unsure about whether it’s okay to undertake work on a tree, it’s best to get advice from an accredited tree surgeon, or contact your local authority or the Forestry Commission.
Do you need a tree felling licence?
Any work outside of your own private garden may require a tree felling licence from the Forestry Commission. Otherwise, you could be committing an offence. Only someone with an invested interest in the land can apply (such as a freeholder) or if you’re acting on behalf of another party with a legal right over the trees.
However, there are multiple licence exemptions, all of which can be found online on the Forestry Commission’s website. Exemptions can be based on several factors, including the type of work required and the location of the tree. If the tree is on council-owned land, inform them if you’ve spotted dangerous, overgrown or diseased trees.
Which trees are protected in the UK?
Lots of different trees can be protected due to their location (e.g., sites of historical value), age or size, so you’ll always need to check before work takes place.
If you cut down a protected tree without the correct permissions, you could receive a fine (as much as £20,000), be prosecuted (for tree felling without the appropriate licence) and served a notice to replace the trees destroyed.
How do you check if a tree is protected?
The two main types of tree protection are TPOs (Tree Preservation Orders) and those based in conservation areas. This may cover individual trees, multiple trees or woods.
To check whether a tree is protected, you’ll need to contact your local authority. If you’ve hired an experienced arborist, they may even do this for you before they start work.
Get more advice from a professional tree surgeon
If you’re looking for an expert arborist, contact DH Tree Services. We offer our services across Surrey and South West London, coming out to Croydon, Dorking and surrounding areas.
For more advice about tree cutting permissions, please contact us.
