Having trees on your property can benefit the environment and give you something you can enjoy year after year. However, it is a big responsibility to look after trees in your poetry, and there are legal implications in regard to ensuring your trees are safe and healthy at all times.
The Law and Trees on Private Property
Felling a tree on private property is something you don’t need permission to do unless it is in a conservation area or subject to a tree prevention order. Homeowners can remove any trees outside these restrictions for any reason (renters should seek permission from their landlord). Trees outside of private property will be subject to a full licence. If your tree is close to or hangs over a public right of way or road, you need it to ensure it isn’t obstructing pedestrians or traffic, and you will be required to trim back any branches and ensure the tree is in good health.
Obstructions include blocking visibility or walking routes, covering crossings, traffic lights or security cameras set up by the local council, for example. Should your tree cause an accident or injury to the person, you will be liable for any damages if this is caused by not preserving the health and condition of the tree, a leaning tree that is dying and shedding branches can injure people walking below, and they can claim against your as the property owner for damages they sustain.
This can be via hiring an arborist for pruning, tree lopping or removal if required.
Maintaining Healthy Trees
Keeping your trees healthy means paying attention to its leaves, branches, roots and the ground surrounding the tree.
For example, if water collects around the base of the tree, this can indicate waterlogged roots and can be a contributing factor to the death of a tree. Determining the source and the cause of pooling water can help protect the tree’s health.
The same goes for a sick or dying tree. Looking out for signs of chipped bark, visible rot or decay, and trees with no or dead leaves can indicate something is amiss. Call an arborist to help you determine the tree’s health and look at your options for removal if required for safety so it doesn’t fall.
Trees shouldn’t need watering as they will adapt to their environment. Water and damp soil can encourage roots to grow upwards towards the surface and cause damage to the ground and the tree; avoid watering your tree to keep it in good health.
From time to time, trees may need pruning or thinning to help them remain healthy and remove overgrowth or dead branches. This is usually done after the tree reaches a certain age, specifically 10 years for thinning. Doing this regularly can help you to ensure you spot signs of anything untoward going on and ensure your tree can thrive year after year.
Conclusion
In many cases, your tree will grow strong and healthy and be a source of enjoyment and a vital component of the local environment. Taking proactive measures to ensure your tree is healthy can help you to avoid any issues down the line and ensure your tree isn’t causing problems to your neighbours or passers-by.
