Introduction
If you want to report that a tree or branch has fallen onto the road and is causing a hazard, please visit our Report a problem on the road page.
If you have already reported a problem you can check the status of your report using your report reference number here.
If you are reporting this problem outside normal working hours – Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm – and you believe it is an urgent problem and a risk to public safety, please phone the police on 101.
We are responsible for the maintenance of 6500kms of road network. Many of these roads have associated land or verges which, in the majority of cases, also belong to us. Any trees situated in these areas are our responsibility.
We maintain and preserve our trees while making sure they do not pose a risk to people or property. We deal with the management and maintenance of trees situated on highway land throughout Somerset. We also deal with tree enquiries from the public and parish and district councils. We can also provide general advice about horticultural or arboricultural related issues.
When we receive an enquiry we record the details and check our records to make sure we own the tree. Most of the time we will visit the site to inspect the tree.
We deal with emergencies as soon as possible, and less urgent cases within 10 working days.
If your query relates to trees that are protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or are in a Conservation Area, please contact your district council.
If a tree outside your house needs pruning, please contact us
Permission to fell or prune a tree
Trees may be subject to planning controls which we administer, so we advise you to check with us before starting any work to trees. Formal approval must be sought from your district council if the tree is subject to a Tree Preservation Order. Contact the Tree Officer at your district council. Six weeks’ written notice must be given to your district council if the tree is in a Conservation Area.
Report an overhanging hedge
Maintaining a hedge is the responsibility of the landowner. If a hedge encroaches on a highway and causes a hazard or an obstruction, the landowner is expected to cut the hedge back. If a landowner fails in this duty and this inconveniences highway users, we can serve notice on the owner to ensure the hazard or obstruction is removed. you can find out how to report an overhanging hedge obstructing the road here.
If you are concerned that a Council-owned tree is damaging your property.
You will need to put your allegations of damage in writing to the County Arboriculturist. We will inspect the site as soon as possible and tell you about any action that needs to be taken. You should also contact your building insurer for their advice.