Question 1

Can you quote over the phone/by photos or videos?

Accepted Answer

If you share a detailed description of the access, work required, and photos/videos of the site, we will give you a rough estimate where possible.

However, there are many varying factors that impact the logistics of tree work, and therefore, we recommend a site visit prior to any work to properly discuss our processes and determine an accurate price.

Question 2

What is a conservation area or TPO?

Accepted Answer

In the UK, a Conservation Area is a designated area with special architectural or historic interest, where additional planning controls apply to preserve or enhance the character and appearance of the area. When it comes to trees, any tree with a trunk diameter above a specified size (usually 75mm or more when measured at a height of 1.5 meters above ground level) is protected in a Conservation Area. Prior notification to the local planning authority (LPA) is required before undertaking any tree work, including pruning or removal, on protected trees within a Conservation Area. This is in the form of an S211 notice that can be submitted by SJ Arborists.

A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is a legal order made by a local planning authority to protect specific trees or groups of trees, usually because of their amenity value. Trees subject to a TPO are protected from pruning, felling, or other works without the consent of the local planning authority. Any proposed work to trees covered by a TPO requires an application for consent, which the local planning authority will assess based on the tree's health, condition, and amenity value. SJ Arborists submit clear, professional and detailed TPO applications on your behalf when carrying out any tree work to a TPO tree.

Question 3

I live in a conservation area but I planted my tree myself; do I still need LPA permission?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if you live in a Conservation Area and you wish to carry out work on a tree you planted in your garden, you typically need to notify the local planning authority before undertaking any tree work. Even though you planted the tree yourself, it falls under the protection regulations of the Conservation Area. 
This means you would need to submit a prior notification to the council detailing the proposed work, such as pruning or removal, and wait for their response before proceeding. Failure to do so could result in penalties or enforcement action by the council. 
At SJ Arborists we can submit S211 planning applications (covering tree works in conservation areas) to the council on your behalf free of charge.

Question 4

Can I request tree work on a tree overhanging my property?

Accepted Answer

In the UK, you have the legal right to trim back branches that extend onto your property from neighbouring trees. This is to prevent nuisance or damage. It's crucial to do this responsibly, ensuring it doesn't harm the tree or cause imbalance. It's advisable to discuss concerns with your neighbour and aim for a mutual agreement on necessary tree work. If no agreement is reached, you're permitted to trim the tree back to your property boundary, provided it doesn't harm the tree.

For trees owned by the council, like highway trees, you can request work through the council's tree management or highways department. Based on factors like tree health and safety, they'll assess the tree to see whether tree work is required. Should they determine work is required they will either employ their own contracted team or confirm what work they will allow approval for, normally through email.

Question 5

Can I cut my tree at any point in the year?

Accepted Answer

In the UK, tree pruning or cutting is generally permissible throughout the year. However, it's crucial to factor in the tree species and potential wildlife impacts, such as nesting birds. The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 strictly prohibits disturbing bird nests during the breeding season, typically from March to August. Therefore, prior to any tree work, it's vital to thoroughly inspect for nesting birds to ensure compliance with the law. During our initial site assessments for estimating work, SJ Arborist employees always conduct thorough checks for nesting birds or other wildlife.

Additionally, sap levels play a significant role in determining the best time to prune certain species, such as birches and maples, known for heavy bleeding. Pruning these trees during spring, when sap flow is high, may lead to excessive bleeding, causing stress to the tree. Late summer or early autumn is generally recommended for pruning bleeding trees to minimize sap loss and reduce tree stress.

In summary, while tree cutting is permitted year-round, it's essential to consider species characteristics, wildlife protection laws, and seasonal factors like sap bleeding before commencing tree work. This holistic approach ensures the health of the trees and preserves the surrounding ecosystem.

For more information contact our team today.

Question 6

Why do I need to cut my trees?

Accepted Answer

Tree cutting may be necessary for various reasons, including:

1. Safety: Trees with dead or damaged branches can pose a risk of falling, especially during storms or strong winds. Removing these hazardous branches enhances safety for property and individuals.

2. Health: Pruning can improve the overall health of a tree by removing diseased, infested, or overcrowded branches. This promotes better air circulation, sunlight penetration, and nutrient distribution within the tree canopy.

3. Aesthetics: Trimming trees can enhance their appearance by shaping them, removing overgrown branches, or reducing their size to maintain an attractive landscape.

4. Property Protection: Overhanging branches can damage roofs, gutters, fences, or utility lines. Cutting back trees helps prevent potential property damage and ensures structural integrity.

5. Light and Space: Trimming trees can increase sunlight penetration to gardens, lawns, or other vegetation below. It also creates more open space for outdoor activities or garden expansion.

6. Disease and Pest Control: Removing infected or infested branches can help prevent the spread of diseases or pests to other parts of the tree or neighbouring trees.

Overall, tree cutting is essential for maintaining safety, promoting tree health, enhancing aesthetics, protecting property, and improving the overall environment of your landscape.

Question 7

My tree/a tree has fallen in my garden/on my house/car; what do I do?

Accepted Answer

If a tree has fallen in your garden or onto your house or car, here's what to do:

1. Safety First: Make sure everyone is safe and away from immediate danger. If there are any injuries, seek medical help immediately.

2. Assess the Damage: Check the extent of the damage caused by the fallen tree. Look for structural damage to your property or any other hazards.

3. Contact Us Immediately: Call our emergency tree service at SJ Arborists. We specialise in handling urgent situations like this and will respond promptly to assist you.

4. Leave Tree Removal to the Experts: Do not attempt to remove the fallen tree yourself, especially if it's entangled with power lines or poses a risk of further damage. Our trained professionals will safely remove the tree and assess any additional risks.

5. Document the Damage: Take photos of the fallen tree and any damage caused to your property. This documentation will be useful for insurance purposes.

6. Contact Your Insurance Provider: Inform your insurance company about the incident and provide them with the necessary information and documentation. They will guide you through the claims process.

7. Secure the Area: If possible, secure the area around the fallen tree to prevent further damage or accidents. Use caution tape or barriers to warn others of the hazard.

8. Stay Calm: We understand that this can be a stressful situation. Rest assured, our team will handle the tree removal professionally and efficiently, restoring safety to your property.

By following these steps and contacting our emergency tree service, you can ensure a swift resolution to the situation and minimise any further damage or risk.

Expert Tree Care Advice

Frequently asked questions

Can you quote over the phone/by photos or videos?

What is a conservation area or TPO?

I live in a conservation area but I planted my tree myself; do I still need LPA permission?

Can I request tree work on a tree overhanging my property?

Can I cut my tree at any point in the year?

Why do I need to cut my trees?

My tree/a tree has fallen in my garden/on my house/car; what do I do?

Get in touch with
any questions

Expert Tree Care Advice

Frequently asked questions

Can you quote over the phone/by photos or videos?

What is a conservation area or TPO?

I live in a conservation area but I planted my tree myself; do I still need LPA permission?

Can I request tree work on a tree overhanging my property?

Can I cut my tree at any point in the year?

Why do I need to cut my trees?

My tree/a tree has fallen in my garden/on my house/car; what do I do?

Get in touch with any questions

Get in touch with
any questions