Tree pruning in Glastonbury and across Somerset
Removing the right branches can make a tree safer, healthier and easier to live with, without changing it more than it needs.
What is tree pruning?
Tree pruning means removing selected branches rather than working on the whole tree. It might be dead wood, a storm-damaged limb, or a branch growing where you don’t want it.
If the whole tree has got too big or too dense, crown reduction or thinning may suit it better.
Please don’t go near branches touching power lines yourself. Contact the network operator first by calling 105.
When you might need it
- Branches are dead, damaged or look unsafe
- A limb is growing too close to a building, roof or power line
- Low branches are getting in the way of a path or drive
- Branches are rubbing against each other
- You want to tidy a tree’s shape
How the job works
- Get in touch. Call us or send the details of the job and where you are.
- Quote. We look at the job and give you a quote.
- Checks and a date. We check whether any permission is needed, make the application to the council if it is, and agree a date with you.
- The work. We carry out the work as agreed.
- Clear-up. We clear up as agreed before we leave.
Photos of our work
Working among the branches on ropes.
Cutting a branch while on ropes.
Tree pruning questions
What’s the difference between pruning and crown reduction?
Pruning deals with particular branches. Crown reduction makes the whole top of the tree smaller. If you’re not sure which you need, tell us what the problem is.
Do I need permission?
You might. Work on a tree with a Tree Preservation Order normally needs the council’s consent, and in a conservation area you normally have to give the council six weeks’ written notice. Somerset Council can tell you whether either applies to your tree.
If an application is needed, we can make it to the council for you.
Can I have a neighbour’s overhanging branches cut back?
You can usually cut branches back to your boundary, but not beyond it, and the protections above still apply. You mustn’t take off so much that it harms the tree’s health, lets disease in or makes the tree unstable, as that can lead to action for criminal damage. It’s best to talk to your neighbour first.
Tell us what’s happening when you get in touch, and we’ll let you know if we can help.
When is the best time of year?
The best time depends on the type of tree and the work it needs, so we’ll advise you when we look at it.
Wherever the timing, nesting birds are protected by law, so any nests need to be checked for before work starts. Dangerous branches may need dealing with sooner: see emergency tree work.
What happens to the branches?
We’ll agree with you before we start whether the branches are taken away or left as logs or woodchip.
Related services
Making the whole tree smaller, or letting in more light.
Trimming and reducing hedges to keep them tidy.
For trees that have fallen or become dangerous.
Need tree pruning in Glastonbury or Somerset?
Call or send us the details and we’ll get back to you with a quote.