Can the tree adjacent to my property be pruned?
More information about tree felling and pruning
Can I prune the tree adjacent to my property?
If the tree or trees are within a Conservation area or protected by a Tree Preservation Order you must apply to the Planning department within the Town Hall and inform the owner of the trees as a courtesy.
If the trees are not protected you are within your rights to remove any overhanging vegetation to your boundary, but you must offer the arising back to the owner.
More information about tree felling and pruning
Is the tree causing damage to my property?
You should contact your insurer who will advise you with your concerns. Damage to buildings due to vegetation-linked subsidence is far less frequent than is often commonly believed.
However, occasionally difficulties can occur when inadequate foundations are placed on a shrinkable clay soil, adjacent to the roots of vegetation. It is then, usually in periods of extended drought, that effects can be noted of movement in a building’s foundations.
If evidence has been found of structural damage to your property and it is believed that this may be linked to the location of adjacent Council-owned trees or shrubs, it is imperative that all details and reports in connection with the situation are forwarded immediately to the Quality Department, Vicarage Road, Darlington, DL1 1JW. The Council will then endeavour to investigate these concerns and will take every appropriate action to prevent any further difficulties.
Will the Council fell the tree adjacent to my property?
Darlington Borough Council has a policy to only remove trees that are dead, diseased, dangerous, or can be proven to be linked to damage caused to buildings. This approach fully addresses the Council’s duty of care in accordance with current industry best practice and ensures that all possible investigations are carried out.
More information about tree felling and pruning
Trees are shading my property.
Legally you have the right to vertical light but not horizontal light.
I have trees within my property, what are my
responsibilities?
The owner of trees have a duty of care to ensure that their trees are safe, and it is recommended that they are regularly inspected by a suitably impartial experienced consultant Arboriculturist, and having Professional indemnity insurance.
A suitably experienced Arboriculturist with public liability insurance must carry out any works regarding trees that are protected.
Who owns the trees adjacent to my property?
Darlington Borough Council do not hold the records of land ownership, but the Land Registry [external link] will be able to help you.