Tree Advice and Guidance
The management of privately owned trees is the responsibility of the landowner. The Authority does not provide informal advice on tree management.
If you require advice, you may wish to contact a qualified arboricultural consultant or tree contractor. We are unable to recommend individual contractors or consultants.
If you believe a tree or woodland of public amenity value is under threat, you can ask the Authority to consider making a Tree Preservation Order.
Click here to find out what information we need and how to submit a request.
Trees that are obstructing or affecting a public highway or public right of way should be reported to Devon County Council Highways.
The Authority cannot become involved in disputes relating to trees on private property. These matters are generally civil issues between neighbouring landowners.
Landowners can be identified by using the on-line Land Registry service.
Where branches from a neighbouring tree overhang your property, you may have a common law right to prune them back to the boundary line.
Before carrying out any work, we recommend discussing your intentions with the tree owner. Any branches, fruit or other material removed from the tree remain the property of the tree owner and should be offered back to them.
You must not enter neighbouring land or carry out work beyond your property boundary without the landowner's permission.
Care should be taken to avoid causing damage to the tree or making it unsafe. To minimise the risk of damage or disputes, works should be carried out by a competent contractor in accordance with British Standard BS 3998: Tree Work – Recommendations.
If the tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or is located within a Conservation Area, consent may be required before any work is undertaken.
If a tree is affecting telephone or electricity lines, you should contact the relevant utility provider directly.
You can view and comment on planning applications that may affect trees through our online planning register.