We have some responsibility for managing trees, hedgerows and woodlands within York.
Read more about our responsibilities in connection with public trees (trees on council land).
Trees within conservation areas and trees that are of visual value can be protected by tree preservation orders (TPOs).
See further information about the value of trees.
Woodlands are protected by forestry legislation overseen by the Forestry Commission.
Report issues with public trees or hedgerows
We can only carry out work to public trees and hedgerows (trees or hedges on council land) where there is an identified health and safety issue.
See details of our responsibilities for maintaining trees and hedgerows, and how to report issues:
Guidance on helping to water trees
We have planted lots of new trees across York and encourage residents to help water them. If you can help, please refer to the guidance below:
- please feel free to help out and irrigate any newly planted trees for their first summer
- in any dry periods give them extra water to help them establish
- recycled or “grey water” may be used as long as its not polluted with harsh chemicals or detergents
- water can be recycled from sinks, baths and showers but not washing machines or toilets
- rainwater is best and this can be collected in water buts diverting from rainwater down pipes
- soak the soil around the tree base and add water down the ventilation tube sticking out of the soil if one is fitted
- don’t worry about quantity or over watering as all will help the trees survive summer