​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. 



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0115-824-3203 


Ash Dieback Disease Nottingham

Ash dieback is a fungal disease that has been rapidly spreading across Nottingham, causing devastation among ash tree populations. The fungus, Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, attacks the tree’s leaves and bark and ultimately results in the death of the tree. The disease was first identified in the UK in 2012 and since then it has spread quickly throughout England, including Nottinghamshire.


The effects of ash dieback on Nottingham’s trees are severe; within six months of infection, many trees will show signs of decline such as leaf loss and crown thinning. Within two years most infected trees will have died or be close to dying. This affects not just our wildlife habitats but also local people who rely on forests and woodlands for leisure activities such as walking, cycling, and fishing.


The best way to tackle the problem is through prevention and early detection. The Forestry Commission has set up a program of surveillance across England which includes Nottinghamshire; this involves sampling trees in known infected sites and monitoring them on an ongoing basis for any changes. If ash dieback is found at an early stage, it can be managed more effectively than if the disease spreads widely before being identified.


The Forestry Commission also runs a campaign called “Help Us Help Ash” where people are encouraged to inform them of any suspected cases of ash dieback in their local area so that they can take further action if necessary. People can also help by buying locally sourced ash trees and planting them in their gardens or parks so that the disease is not spread further.


In Nottinghamshire, the Nottingham City Council has set up an Ash Dieback Task Force to tackle the issue. It includes representatives from a range of organisations such as Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust and local arboricultural societies, all working together to monitor affected sites and take appropriate action. The Task Force is also involved in public awareness campaigns to encourage people to report suspected cases of the disease.


Nottinghamshire County Council is taking additional steps by working with landowners and other stakeholders on planting native, disease-resistant species of trees in areas where previously there were only ash trees. With this direct intervention, it is hoped that the impact of this devastating tree disease will be minimised, and Nottinghamshire’s environment preserved.


The woodland canopy of Nottinghamshire is important to its local ecology and the health of its residents. It provides a habitat for wildlife, efficient carbon storage, temperature regulation, and air purification. This makes it all the more important that clear steps are taken to protect vulnerable areas from ash dieback disease. Ultimately this requires everyone’s help; from landowners reporting suspicious sites to residents volunteering to keep an eye on their local environments. Together people can make sure that Nottinghamshire remains vibrant and healthy for generations to come.


There is no doubt that ash tree dieback disease has caused a huge disruption in Nottinghamshire’s countryside. However, with the right steps and collaboration, it is possible to protect the county’s natural environment from further damage. Taking proactive measures now can ensure that Nottinghamshire retains its rich wildlife habitat, carbon storage, temperature regulation, and air purification for years to come. Together we can work towards a brighter future.



Ash tree dieback inspection and survey

At Nottingham Tree Surgery and Arborist Services, we understand the importance of keeping ash trees healthy and providing necessary maintenance. That’s why we offer a comprehensive ash tree dieback inspection and survey service to help diagnose and treat existing or potential issues with your ash trees.


Our team of arborists will carefully inspect each of your ash trees for signs of dieback, paying special attention to the canopy size. If any dead or dying material is spotted, we will take detailed notes and photos for further analysis. Additionally, we can also survey your ash tree's bark and inspect its roots in order to detect signs of disease or decay.


Once our inspection and survey are complete, we will provide you with a full report on the health of your ash trees We can also make recommendations for the removal or any treatment that may be necessary, such as pruning or spraying protective fungicides.


Our team is here to help ensure the long-term health and safety of your ash trees, so don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any concerns about their condition. We look forward to helping you keep your ash trees healthy and vibrant for years to come!


About Ash Tree Dieback Disease

Ash dieback is a fungal disease that affects ash trees. It can cause the leaves to turn yellow and drop prematurely, while also causing lesions on the bark. Unfortunately, diagnosing ash dieback can be difficult since it is often confused with other diseases or environmental factors.


The best way to identify if an ash tree has ash dieback is to look for typical symptoms. Common signs of the disease include wilting or yellowed leaves, lesions on the bark, and stunted new growth. Additionally, an infected tree may experience dieback within its crown as well as a thinning canopy.


Trees exhibiting any of these signs should be examined further by a professional arborist or plant specialist. They can confirm the diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options. To prevent the disease from spreading, the removal of infected trees is suggested in most cases. Additionally, proper hygiene practices should be taken when pruning or handling ash trees to reduce the risk of contamination.


By recognising the signs and symptoms early on, you can protect your ash trees from the devastating effects of ash dieback disease. If you suspect that your tree may be infected, contact a professional arborist for help. With the right diagnosis and timely treatment, the decline in your ash tree’s health can be managed and minimised.


How can you tell if an ash tree has ash dieback disease?

Ash dieback disease is an often fatal fungal infection that affects ash trees. Symptoms of ash dieback disease include discoloured, wilting leaves; defoliation; bare branches; cankers on the trunk and branches; and eventually death of the tree. In order to tell if an ash tree has ash dieback disease, it is important to inspect the tree for any of these symptoms. Additionally, when ash dieback disease is present, it often causes infected leaves and twigs to have a “shepherd’s crook” or zig-zag shape as they grow. If an ash tree has any of these symptoms, it is likely to suffer from ash dieback disease, and it is recommended that the tree be inspected by an arborist or specialist. In order to prevent the further spread of ash dieback disease, it is important to treat infected trees as soon as possible. Treatment for ash dieback disease includes removing diseased branches, pruning affected branches below the canker margin, and applying a fungicide to the affected areas. Fungicides are effective at preventing the further spread of the disease but may not be able to restore an infected tree back to full health. Therefore, it is important for landowners and homeowners to take preventative measures and inspect their ash trees regularly for any signs of ash dieback disease.  Even if ash dieback disease is detected, quick action can help limit the spread of the disease and save trees from premature death.


What to do if your tree has ash dieback

If you suspect your ash tree may have contracted Ash Tree Dieback Disease, the first step is to inspect it closely for signs of infection. You will want to look for patterns or discolouration on the trunk and/or branches that may indicate the presence of fungal lesions. Additionally, you may be able to see evidence of dead leaves, shoots and/or branches that have been affected by the disease.


If you do find signs of Ash Tree Dieback Disease on your tree, it is important to act quickly in order to mitigate any further damage or spread of the infection. It is recommended that you contact a certified arborist who can help assess your tree’s condition and provide advice on the best course of action. Depending on the severity of the infection, they may recommend pruning away any infected branches or removing the entire tree in order to prevent further spread of the disease. Additionally, you should ensure that all woody debris is properly disposed of to avoid spreading spores to other trees in your area. By following these best practices and taking necessary preventive measures, you can help protect your tree against Ash Tree Dieback Disease.


It is also important to be aware of other preventative measures that can help reduce the spread of Ash Tree Dieback Disease in your area. These include avoiding activities such as planting or transplanting ash trees, as well as avoiding over-pruning of ash trees or using fertilisers that contain nitrogen. Additionally, it is important to regularly inspect your tree for signs of the disease, such as discoloured leaves, cankers on the bark, and overall dieback of branches. If you notice any signs of infection in your tree, be sure to contact an experienced arborist or forestry professional immediately.


In addition to taking preventive measures and regularly inspecting your tree, it is also important to consider the potential of planting a more resilient tree as a replacement for an ash tree that has been affected by Ash Tree Dieback Disease. Doing so can reduce the risk of further spread of the disease in your area and ensure that your tree is resistant to future damage from the disease. Researching various types of trees, consulting with an arborist or forestry professional, and comparing prices can help you identify the most suitable replacement for your current ash tree. Furthermore, replacing your ash tree with a more resilient species can also help to improve the aesthetics of your garden.

In summary, Ash Tree Dieback Disease is an incredibly serious and destructive threat that should not be taken lightly. Taking preventive measures such as regularly inspecting your trees for signs of infestation, promoting good hygiene in the area around your tree, and replacing infected trees with a more suitable species can help to limit the spread of the disease and protect your landscape from further damage.

With this knowledge in mind, it is important to be proactive in tackling Ash Tree Dieback Disease. On top of these measures, it is also advised to stay educated about the current developments with regards to the disease and to regularly improve your garden’s health through proper tree care. Doing so can help ensure that your landscape remains healthy and beautiful for years to come.\


By investing in a few preventative measures now, you can save yourself time and money in the future by avoiding costly repairs caused by Ash Tree Dieback Disease. Furthermore, if you render your trees more resilient to the disease, you can be sure that they will continue to thrive in the future and bring beauty to your landscape.



Can a tree recover from ash dieback?

Yes, it is possible for a tree to recover from ash dieback. However, the likelihood of recovery varies depending on the severity of the infection and the species of tree in question. Trees that have been infected with moderate to low levels of ash dieback may be able to recover if given proper management and care. For instance, removing diseased branches, monitoring and controlling pest infestations, pruning to reduce canopy density, and providing supplemental water during dry periods can all help a tree recover from ash dieback. In some cases, prescribed burning may also be used to reduce the spread of the disease. However, trees infected with severe levels of ash dieback are more likely to succumb to the disease and will require removal or replacement. Additionally, research suggests that resistant varieties of ash trees may be able to survive the fungus with minimal damage. Therefore, planting new trees from seed sources known to possess some level of resistance may be a good preventative measure for ash dieback.


Call us now to book a free appointment with our team at Nottingham Tree Surgery and Arborist Services

Your first choice for all tree work in Nottingham


0115-824-3203 

Here is an extensive list of places that we have applied our Tree services over the Nottinghamshire region.


Nottinghamshire, Nottingham City, West Bridgford, Mapperley, Beeston, Wollaton, Hucknall, HysoGreen, Trowell, Sandiacre, Edwalton, Carlton, Wilford Ruddington, Gamston, Holme Pierrepont, Burton Joyce, Bramcote, Clifton, Colwick, Beechdale, Gedling, Strelley, Toton, Woodthorpe, Carrington, Wallaton, Lenton, Eastwood, Radford, Wallaton, Lenton, Eastwood, Radford, Calverton, Basford, Bulwell, Willford, Sherwood, Bilborough, Cinderhill, Sneinton, The Meadows, Selston, East Bridgford, Loughborough, Castle Donington, Ilkeston, Bingham, Southwell.

We have had clients in these service areas all over the Nottinghamshire region. Click here to see all areas we cover.

Tree Surgeon Nottinghamshire

Tree Surgeon Nottingham City

West Bridgford Tree Surgeons

Tree Surgeon Mapperley

Tree Surgeon Beeston

Tree Surgeon Wollaton

Tree Surgeon Hucknall

Tree Surgeon Hyson Green

Tree Surgeon Trowell

Tree Surgeon Sandiacre

Tree Surgeon Edwalton

Tree Surgeon Carlton

Tree Surgeon Wilford

Tree Surgeon Ruddington

Tree Surgeon Gamston

Tree Surgeon Holme Pierrepont

Tree Surgeon Burton Joyce

Tree Surgeon Bramcote

Tree Surgeon Clifton

Tree Surgeon Colwick

Tree Surgeon Beechdale

Tree Surgeon Gedling

Tree Surgeon Strelley

Tree Surgeon Toton

Tree Surgeon Woodthorpe

Tree Surgeon Carrington

Tree Surgeon Wollaton

Tree Surgeon Lenton

Tree Surgeon Eastwood

Tree Surgeon Radford

Tree Surgeon Lenton

Tree Surgeon Eastwood

Tree Surgeon Calverton

Tree Surgeon Basford

Tree Surgeon Bulwell

Tree Surgeon Willford

Tree Surgeon Sherwood

Tree Surgeon Bilborough

Tree Surgeon Cinderhill

Tree Surgeon Sneinton

Tree Surgeon The Meadows

Tree Surgeon Selston

Derby Tree Surgeons

Tree Surgeon East Bridgford

Tree Surgeon Loughborough

Tree Surgeon Castle Donington

Tree Surgeon Ilkeston

Tree Surgeon Bingham

Tree Surgeon Southwell

Tree Surgeon Long Eaton

Tree Surgeon Chilwell

Tree Surgeon ThePark

Tree Surgeon Ilkeston

Tree Surgeon Carlton
Chesterfield Tree Surgeons

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