Are there any times of year when tree works should not be undertaken?
There is no single time of year when all tree work is prohibited, but some types of work should be avoided or carefully planned at certain times to protect wildlife, tree health, and comply with the law.
Are there any times of year when tree works should not be undertaken?
There is no single time of year when all tree work is prohibited, but some types of work should be avoided or carefully planned at certain times to protect wildlife, tree health, and comply with the law.
Understanding seasonal considerations will help you plan tree work responsibly and reduce the risk of harming wildlife or causing long-term tree damage.
Ideally tree works should not be undertaken during the spring time period, when the 'sap is rising' to enable the leaves to flush (come out) and photosynthesis to begin, and during the autumn, when the tree is drawing nutrients back into itself from the leaves as they go brown.
Why timing matters
Trees and wildlife follow natural seasonal cycles.
At different times of year:
- Birds may be nesting
- Trees may be actively growing
- Certain pests and diseases may be more active
Carrying out work at the wrong time can disturb wildlife, increase stress on trees, or create legal risks.
If possible, pruning should be avoided when recovery may be impaired, for example during a period of physiological stress following previous tree work or construction-related damage or during seasonal weather extremes such as drought or extended heavy frost.
For a more detailed guide, follow our Guide to Tree Pruning, which is also available to download or free copies on request:
Arboricultural Association - Guide to Tree Pruning
Bird nesting season
Most birds nest between March and August, although some species may nest outside this period.
It is an offence under wildlife legislation to intentionally damage or destroy an active nest.
Before any tree work:
- Trees should be checked for nesting birds
- If active nests are found, work should be postponed until nesting has finished
Tree health considerations
Different seasons affect how trees respond to work:
Winter
- Often suitable for pruning and removal
- Trees are dormant, reducing stress
Spring and summer
- Trees are actively growing
- Heavy pruning can weaken trees
- Sap bleeding may occur in some species
Autumn
- Generally suitable for many operations
- Wet ground conditions may limit access
More information
Protected trees
If a tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or located in a Conservation Area, you usually need permission before carrying out most work — regardless of the time of year.
When is emergency work allowed?
Urgent work to remove immediate danger (for example after storm damage) may be allowed, but evidence such as photographs should be kept and your local authority informed where required.
Next steps
Check for nesting birds before work begins, check whether the tree is protected (local council or Gov.uk guidance), use a competent tree professional and seek advice if unsure
Find professional help
- Find an ARB Approved Contractor
- Find an Arboricultural Association Registered Consultant
- Gov.uk guidance on nesting birds and wildlife law
Further guidance:
The Tree Care Manual - best practice in species selection, planting, establishment, pruning and tree health, alongside guidance on safety, legislation and working with specialists.
Common sense risk management of trees - Nationally recognised guidance on tree-safety management in the UK (Available as a free download)