Part, or all, of a tree, may become unhealthy or damaged and structurally unsound due to a singular event such as a storm, flood or damage by a vehicle.
  • the damage may be a large broken hanging branch or severed roots allowing an entire tree to rock at soil level or a sapling that has been vandalised or driven into.

Things to look for if you believe a tree to be unhealthy are:-

  • reduced leaf density and colour may indicate reduced vitality
  • hanging branches, loose bark, cracks, cavities, splits in the trunk
  • fungal growths may indicate ongoing decay or disease
  • movement in the trunk and cracks in the ground at the base of the tree?

There is a big difference between an imminent danger and a perceived danger.

Please be assured that council trees are inspected by our qualified tree inspectors along our roads, footpaths, parks and open spaces as a priority every 2 years. All other council trees are inspected and assessed over a 3-year period according to their priority. This approach both protects the city's trees for future generations to enjoy and manages risk to people and property. 

Imminent danger

This is a tree in a dangerous condition at the present time. For example, a large broken hanging branch or severed roots allowing an entire tree to rock at soil level.

Perceived danger

The ‘danger’ is often used to describe a tall tree or one close to a building next to a garden. The tree is not in a dangerous condition but someone thinks it is dangerous because of its existence.

Please note, only our qualified arborists can determine whether a tree is dangerous.

The council does not remove healthy trees. We will only cut one down if it is unsafe and a danger to the public.

If the council needs to cut down/remove a tree, when possible it will be replaced with a new one the following planting season during the winter months.

What you can do

Requests from the public have a big impact on keeping the City green. Being aware of what we can deal with makes sure requests are well-grounded, reasoned and considerate. Without such consideration and care, many trees may be lost or damaged.

Please contact us if you see a tree that is damaged/unhealthy/diseased. Report someone you believe is or has pruned or cut down a council tree.

We will respond to all council tree enquiries within our service standards.
 

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