It is a good idea if you discuss your needs with a qualified tree surgeon before contacting the council. This will help you to identify best practice and:

• Explore whether an application is needed
• Advise on how best to present your proposals
• Guide you through the application process and our tree protection policies.

Tree surgeons and consultants are also a good source of independent advice on tree-related matters and the Arboricultural Association is another valuable source of information.

It is important to ensure that any tree works are carried out by a qualified and competent tree surgeon in accordance with the relevant British Standard Specification (BS 3998:1989).

Before employing a tree surgeon, always ask to see his/her current certificate of insurance to ensure they are covered against third party claims and other risks.

Alternatively the council offers a chargeable pre-application advice service, this does not include a comprehensive health and safety inspection of the tree.

Any advice given by the council does not prejudice the final decision which may be reached on a subsequent application for works.