Trees and hedges

Council-owned trees

Much of the land we own or manage has a large number and variety of trees. This important resource makes a positive contribution to Hart’s natural environment, providing a habitat for wildlife and shaping our landscape.

You can report an issue to us via FixMyStreet. Please choose the 'Tree and Countryside' category from the options:

Report an issue with a Council-owned tree

If you have an enquiry about trees on the roadside or verges, please report to Hampshire County Council which manages these areas.

Report a roadside tree issue

For more information on how we look after our trees, please see our Tree Management Policy

Please note that responsibility for the safe management of trees on privately owned land sits with the landowner.

We use a traffic light system to illustrate how we prioritise tree work to Council-owned trees:

Priority Target date for tree works Type of work likely to fall within category
Red 24 hours - 1 week Immediate safety issues e.g. windblown/storm-damaged trees by target in high or medium occupancy zone
Amber 12 weeks

Essential works such as:

  • Removing standing dead trees from public areas
  • Removing fallen trees where they present an obstruction
  • Removing significant deadwood
  • Work for health and safety reasons
  • Removal of ash exhibiting dieback in excess of 50% from high or medium occupancy zones
Green 6 - 12 months

Where resources allow, may include:

  • Removing less significant deadwood
  • Tipping back branches in contact with property
  • Formative pruning
Not applicable Not applicable

The Council will not fell or prune trees solely for these reasons:

  • Disruption of surfaces and light structures such as footpaths, patios, driveways and fences
  • Reduced light levels
  • Interference with television and/or satellite reception
  • To alleviate the inconvenience of a tree's seasonal and/or natural processes such as
    - leaves
    - twig/small dead branches
    - pollen
    - fruit and seeds
    - bird droppings
    - honeydew from insects
  • Drains blocked by leaves or roots
  • Branches overhanging properties
  • Trees impacting on planning permissions on third party land
  • Personal medical complaints

Tree inspections in response to complaints will not be required in these circumstances.