Trees and woodlands frequently asked questions (FAQs)

FAQs - General enquiries

What do I do if I’m concerned about my neighbour’s hedge?

If you have concerns about the height of a neighbouring hedge, please see the information on our high hedges webpage.

The following government webpage also includes useful information about hedge disputes: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/over-the-garden-hedge/over-the-garden-hedge

How do I report trees that are overhanging the road and/or blocking the pavement?

Trees affecting the roads and pavement are managed by Hertfordshire Highways, part of Hertfordshire County Council. You can report the issue via its website or by phone: 0300 123 4047

I want to plant a tree, what do I need to do?

You are welcome to plant trees on any land that you own – but care should be taken when deciding which species you would like to plant along with their exact location.

Trees mature to all kinds of different shapes and sizes, and they require different conditions in order to thrive. It’s important to avoid planting large-growing trees too close to houses and garages, and to avoid planting particularly thirsty trees in drier areas of land.

If you’d like to plant a celebration or memorial tree in one of our local parks, please reach out to us and we will help guide you through the process. If we can find the right tree for the right place, we will gladly support you in planting and nurturing a commemorative tree. You can find out more about this here.

Where can I get more advice about looking after trees?

The following organisations offer lots of useful information about tree planting best-practices and ongoing care:

• The Arboricultural Association
• The National Tree Safety Group
• The Conservation Volunteers
• The Royal Forestry Society
• The Royal Horticultural Society
• The Tree Council
• The Woodland Trust
• The Arbor Day Foundation

Where can I find notable trees in Three Rivers district?

The Woodland Trust manages an Ancient Tree Inventory, and the following webpage includes a map to help find notable trees across the UK - https://ati.woodlandtrust.org.uk/

The Chilterns National Landscape webpage also has some guidance around local woodland walks - https://www.chilterns.org.uk/visit-chilterns/walks-rides-countryside-activities/featured-walks/