For emergency reports (such as fallen branches obstructing a footpath or highway) that require an immediate response, call 01895 556000 (between 9am and 5pm) or 01895 250111 (out of hours).
For detailed information on how we manage our trees in the borough, read our
Hillingdon Tree Strategy (PDF)
[403KB].
Street trees and overhanging branches
Our priority for management of the borough's street trees is public safety. We carry out pruning of branches where these might obstruct the roads or paths. We also trim back the 'basal growth' (tree shoots that grow at the bottom of some types of tree) each autumn to help keep drivers' sight lines clear and to make it easier for pedestrians to pass.
There are a number of occasions where a branch from one of our trees might overhang your garden or property. If the branch is touching a house or other building, we will inspect the situation and, if appropriate, arrange for the branch to be pruned back.
Normally, other general requests for overhanging branches to be pruned are noted for inclusion in our works programme, and a degree of prioritisation takes place to make best use of funds available. This means that we are unlikely to carry out pruning in every situation where a public tree branch overhangs someone else's land. However, residents may wish to exercise their common law rights in respect of overhanging branches.
Report issues with tree branches
Root issues
It is hard for trees to exist in our streets and parks without causing some minor damage to footpaths, walls and other hard surfaces.
Where tree roots are causing severe damage and, subsequently causing a threat to public safety, tree removal and replacement is sometimes considered.
Report tree root issues
Falling fruit, leaves and blossom
We generally decline requests for trees to be felled on these grounds. However, we can arrange for the pavement under a particularly productive tree to be swept if the falling produce is a significant problem.
Report street cleansing issue
Other tree complaints
We understand that you may have other complaints about trees in the borough and aim to investigate all requests, especially those that involve safety risks. Before you submit a request to us, take a look at the points below to see our general responses on popular tree issues.
- Trees encroaching on buildings
If a branch from a public street tree is touching a house or other building, we will inspect the situation and, if appropriate, arrange for the branch to be pruned back. - Trees next to your property
We take a balanced approach to requests to prune trees next to homes, as we often receive strong feedback that people do not want to live in an area where all trees have been removed. However, sometimes it is appropriate for a tree to be pruned to keep it in proportion with its location. - Sticky residue on a parked car
Lime trees are an important source of nectar for honeybees and we generally decline requests for removing trees for this reason. However, limes as street trees are gradually being phased out across the borough. - Wasps and bees nests
Requests for the removal of bees or wasps nests should be reported by calling 01895 556000.
Report a problem with a tree