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Environment and animals

Report issues with trees

We're responsible for public trees in York. Public trees may be in:

  • parks and open spaces
  • communal areas
  • verges adjacent to highways

All of our own public trees are protected by the Arboricultural Policy for York.

Before reporting a concern, you should check whether we will be able to help, as there are a number of situations where we can't prune, cut roots or remove trees and vegetation. See our trees and vegetation response times.

See details of how we deal with the maintenance of public hedgerows.

You can report concerns with trees online, if you feel that the issue is something we can help with.

Report an issue with a public tree

Our responsibilities for public trees

We can carry out work to public trees where there is an identified health and safety issue.

We can't carry out all tree pruning requests. Unnecessary pruning damages trees leaving them vulnerable to disease.

Report an issue with a public tree which could pose a risk, such as:

  • fallen trees or broken, hanging branches causing a hazard
  • trees or branches causing an obstruction to a footpath
  • a dead or decayed tree
  • large dead or hanging branches
  • splits and tears in tree branches and stems
  • large decay cavities and fungus growing on or around trees
  • root lifting and ground movement around trees seen in windy weather
  • workers digging under trees, cutting roots or damaging trees
  • residents lopping trees without known authorization
  • damaged tree guards or vandalism to trees
  • swings, tree houses and ropes in trees

Do not report trees in private gardens or on private land unless there is a risk to a nearby path or road.

See advice relating to private tree nuisance and disputes.

Our response to tree and vegetation problems

We aim to respond to requests within 4 working days.

Also see

Protected Trees

West Offices, Station Rise, York, YO1 6GA