Tree work and the Law
It's important to schedule any tree work carefully, to avoid disturbing any nesting/breeding birds or bats. It is an offence to intentionally kill or injure wild animals. Find out more about trees, hedges, birds and the Law on the Tree Help website. Non-urgent tree removal/reduction and hedge cutting should not be undertaken during the bird nesting season.
- Bird nesting/breeding season is from 1 March to 31 July.(Depending on seasonal temperatures, some birds do continue breeding into August and September.)
- Where there are bats, seek advice from a licenced bat specialist and if appropriate, get the relevant licence/s before you carry out any major tree work or hedge cutting.
Read about the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Conservation (Natural Habitats) Regulations 1994. If you think that nesting birds or bat roosts have been disturbed please report it to the Police on 0845 8 505 505. To find out more about wildlife, protected species and the Law, email us at: countryside@wokingham.gov.uk or visit one of the following websites:
Tree felling
A tree felling licence is required to fell trees. Read the tree felling licence information on the Forestry Commission website or speak to the Woodland Officer at the South East England Conservancy Office.
How to select an Arboricultural (Tree) Consultant
Arboricultural (Tree) Consultants can make detailed tree inspections and surveys to assess trees for hazards and specify any appropriate remedial work. They can also provide advice in relation to trees and planning matters, tree-related subsidence damage and pest and disease problems. A further list of arboricultural consultants can also be found on the Arboricultural Association website and on the Institute of Chartered Foresters.
How to select an Arboricultural (Tree) Contractor
Arboricultural contractors, (or ‘Arboriculturists’, ‘Arborists’ or ‘Tree Surgeons’), undertake tree work to a specification. Contact one of our Tree Officers first to find out if your trees are covered by a Tree Preservation Order, as this could have an impact on your plans. More advice can be found on the Treecare website.
Wood chips, logs and firewood
Tree contractors often supply and deliver logs and woodchips to residents which are produced as a result of their work. These are usually supplied by the lorry load, delivered to your property.
