Managing your trees

The Arboricultural Association offers general advice for tree owners, while the Forestry Commission provides information on the identification and management of tree pests and diseases, including how to report a notifiable pest or disease.

If you would like further advice on trees and their maintenance, you are advised to contact a tree contractor (arborist) or consultant as applicable. The Arboricultural Association maintains lists of Approved Contractors and Registered Consultants; there are other local professionals not listed in those directories, but you should satisfy yourself that they are suitably qualified for the work to be undertaken and have the appropriate level of public liability and/or professional indemnity insurance.

It is prudent to have your trees inspected at regular intervals by a tree professional, and after major storms if you have any concerns.

The council is not able to give general advice on trees or arrange pre-application site visits for works to trees.

Trees and wildlife

Trees and hedgerows provide habitat for many species of mammals, birds, and insects. Whilst all wildlife is important, some species are legally protected, including nesting birds and bats.

Nesting birds may be present year-round but most nest between February and August, so particular care must be taken during those months to ensure that birds and their nests are not disturbed.

Bats also roost in trees but are less obvious given their nocturnal nature and roosting sites, such as cavities, cracks, loose bark, and ivy.

You must take steps to avoid disturbing bats, such as pre-work checks for bat potential, and if they are found during work, stop and contact the Bat Conservation Trust on 0345 1300 228.