Problems with trees

Part of: Trees

We own all trees on public land in Trafford, so you're not allowed to do any work on them yourself. We're responsible for maintaining these trees, but you can report a problem to us if you see one.

Immediately dangerous trees

If you think a tree is dangerous and requires urgent attention, contact Access Trafford on 0161 912 2000 between 9am and 5pm, or 0161 912 2020 outside these hours.

Trees causing damage to your property

If you're concerned that a council-owned tree is damaging your property or you see existing damage, contact your building insurer. Most household policies require you to do this.

Your insurer will advise you on the next steps and, if needed, will contact our insurers directly. The property owner is responsible for investigating any alleged damage.

Trees obstructing your light or blocking your view

All council-owned highway trees are inspected every three to four years. If work is needed, we will do it shortly after inspection. Please do not report this problem.

Trees interfering with your television or radio signal

We do not prune trees to improve satellite reception. If you have an issue, please contact your provider.

Trees dropping seeds, leaves or fruit

We don't prune trees just because they're dropping seeds, leaves, or fruit. Our street cleaning teams regularly sweep the streets to handle any debris.

Trees in parks

We inspect trees in parks every five years. During the inspection, we look at the health and safety of each tree before carrying out recommended works shortly after.

If you think a park tree is dangerous and requires urgent attention, contact Access Trafford on 0161 912 2000 between 9am and 5pm, or 0161 912 2020 outside these hours.

If you are a Housing Trust tenant and have trees in your garden that need pruning

For help with this problem, contact your local Housing Trust Office.

Trees in your garden or other private land you own

Some trees in private gardens and other private land are legally protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or are within a conservation area. You must get prior written consent from the Council to work on these trees. Find out more about tree preservation orders and trees in conservation areas.

Nuisance trees in your neighbour’s garden

A property owner can legally let a tree grow to its natural size. However, if it becomes a nuisance to an adjoining property, the neighbor can trim any overhanging branches back to their property line.

We recommend talking to the tree's owner before you do any work. The trimming must not harm the tree's stability or long-term health.

High hedges in your neighbour's garden

If you are the owner or occupier of a residential property affected by a high hedge, you can make a complaint to the Council. Read more about complaining about a high hedge.