I’m worried about the safety of my tree – can a council tree officer inspect it? If not, who can?

Local council tree officers are mainly responsible for administering tree protection and planning matters. They do not normally carry out inspections of privately owned trees for safety.

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I’m worried about the safety of my tree – can a council tree officer inspect it? If not, who can?

Local council tree officers are mainly responsible for administering tree protection and planning matters. They do not normally carry out inspections of privately owned trees for safety.

If you are worried about the safety of your tree, you should arrange for a qualified arboricultural professional to inspect it.

Who inspects privately owned trees?

In most cases, responsibility for assessing a private tree sits with the tree owner.

A qualified arboricultural professional can:

  • Inspect the tree
  • Identify defects or risks
  • Recommend proportionate action

What about protected trees?

If the tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or is in a Conservation Area, you still need professional advice, but permission may be required before carrying out work.

Emergency work to remove immediate danger may be allowed, but evidence should be kept and the council informed.

When might the council be involved?

The council may become involved if:

  • A protected tree is at risk
  • A planning application affects the tree
  • There is an immediate danger to the public from a tree on public land

They do not act as free inspectors for private trees.

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