The council has a responsibility to ensure the adopted highway is clear of debris and to maintain our parks open spaces.
Please be assured that council trees are inspected by our qualified tree inspectors along our roads, footpaths, parks and open spaces as a priority every 2 years. All other council trees are inspected and assessed over a 3-year period according to their priority. This approach both protects the city's trees for future generations to enjoy and manages risk to people and property.
Any fallen tree that is blocking the adopted highway or a fallen council tree that is affecting property will be removed by the council’s Arborists as a matter of urgency.
A fallen tree in a park or open space not causing an obstruction will be attended to but during a storm event, priority will be given to fallen trees on the highway.
Illegal tree felling
Only a council arborist has the authority to fell a council tree. Cutting down, uprooting or wilfully destroying a council tree is an offence and all instances are investigated. Those discovered responsible will be prosecuted for felling without a licence. Residents who spot illegal tree felling and report the offender to the council will receive a £100 reward.
Stump removal
Council tree stumps will be removed at a later date as part of the council’s stump grinding programme. Stumps are left at waist height to ensure that they are easily seen and not a hazard.
When possible or appropriate it will be replaced with a new tree the following planting season during the winter months.
What you can do
Please contact us if you see a tree that has fallen or if you see a tree stump that has been left for over 12 months. Report someone you believe is or has pruned or cut down a council tree.
We will respond to all council tree enquiries within our service standards.