Most people don’t start by asking about permission. They start by noticing something feels wrong.
A tree that’s always been solid suddenly leans more after a storm. Large branches come down in high winds. Roots begin lifting paving close to the house. In Bournemouth, where strong coastal winds and mature trees are part of everyday life, these moments are common.
The question homeowners then face is a difficult one:
If this tree is dangerous, can I remove it straight away, or do I still need permission?
This guide answers that clearly, without legal waffle.
When a Tree Stops Feeling Safe
A tree becomes a concern when it starts to pose a risk to people or property. That doesn’t always mean it looks dead or obviously unstable. Some of the most dangerous situations develop quietly.
Homeowners in Bournemouth often raise concerns after storms, when a tree has shifted slightly or lost heavy branches. Others worry when trees sit close to houses, parked cars, footpaths, or neighbouring gardens.
If you’re questioning whether a tree is safe, that uncertainty alone is worth taking seriously.
What Counts as a Dangerous Tree?
A dangerous tree is one that presents a realistic risk of falling or dropping large material. This risk might be immediate or developing, but it must relate to safety, not appearance.
Common warning signs include visible cracks in the trunk, significant lean that wasn’t there before, exposed or lifting roots, repeated branch failure, or storm damage that has weakened the structure.
What matters is not whether the tree looks untidy, but whether it could reasonably cause harm if it failed.
Do You Always Need Permission to Remove a Dangerous Tree?
This is the question most homeowners want answered clearly.
In general, yes, permission is required to remove trees that are protected or located in conservation areas. However, there is an important exception.
If a tree poses an immediate danger to people or property, work may be carried out without prior permission. Safety comes first. That said, this does not mean anything goes.
The work must be limited to what is reasonably necessary to remove the danger. Removing more than needed can cause problems later.
Emergency Tree Removal: When Safety Comes First
Emergency tree removal applies when there is a genuine and immediate risk. This might include a tree that is actively failing, severely storm-damaged, or at high risk of collapse.
In these situations, delaying action to seek permission could increase the danger. The law recognises this, but it also expects homeowners to act responsibly.
Emergency work should be proportionate. Removing or stabilising the dangerous part is usually acceptable. Clearing a tree completely when only part is unsafe may raise questions.
What If the Dangerous Tree Is Protected?
This is where many homeowners hesitate.
Trees covered by Tree Preservation Orders or located in conservation areas are still protected, even when they become dangerous. Protection does not disappear automatically, but safety concerns can justify urgent work.
The key difference is accountability. When emergency work is carried out on a protected tree, you should be able to show why it was necessary.
In Bournemouth, tree matters are overseen by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council. Acting reasonably, with clear evidence, is far safer than acting first and explaining later with nothing to support your decision.
What the Council Expects After Emergency Removal
If emergency work is carried out without permission, councils usually expect to be informed afterwards.
This typically involves explaining what work was done and why it was necessary. Photos taken before and after the work, along with professional advice, can make this process straightforward.
Problems tend to arise when homeowners cannot show that the tree genuinely posed a danger or when the work went beyond what was required to make the situation safe.
Who Decides If a Tree Is Dangerous?
Ultimately, responsibility sits with the homeowner. If a tree fails and causes damage, the question asked later is whether the risk should have been recognised and managed.
This is why guessing is risky. What feels dangerous to one person may not meet the threshold for emergency work, while some serious risks are easy to miss without experience.
Professional assessment helps remove doubt. It provides a clear basis for action and protects homeowners from accusations of acting unnecessarily or too late.
Common Mistakes Bournemouth Homeowners Make
One common mistake is waiting too long, hoping the problem will resolve itself. Trees rarely become safer over time once warning signs appear.
Another mistake is overreacting. Removing a whole tree when only limited work was needed can create council issues and unnecessary cost.
Finally, many homeowners assume storms automatically give permission to remove trees. Storm damage can justify urgent work, but it does not remove the need to act reasonably or keep records.
When a Quick Phone Call Can Save Bigger Problems
Many situations sit in a grey area. The tree doesn’t look ready to fall, but something feels off. This is often the best time to seek advice.
A short conversation with a local professional can help clarify whether the situation is urgent, whether permission is likely to be needed, and what the safest next step is.
In a place like Bournemouth, where conditions and council expectations are well understood locally, that clarity can prevent much bigger issues later.
Key Takeaways for Bournemouth Homeowners
Dangerous trees must be handled carefully, but safety does matter. Permission rules still apply in most cases, yet emergencies are recognised when risks are real.
The safest approach is not rushing or ignoring the issue, but understanding where you stand before acting.
Final Thoughts
When a tree becomes a concern, ignoring it rarely makes the situation clearer. Acting without understanding the rules can create problems just as quickly.
For Bournemouth homeowners, the safest path is clarity before action.
If you’re dealing with a tree that feels unsafe and you’re unsure whether permission is required, a quick conversation can make the situation much clearer.
Tree Sol regularly speaks with Bournemouth homeowners who want to do the right thing without creating legal or safety issues. Clear advice early on often prevents stress, delay, and unnecessary costs later.
Call Tree Sol today to speak directly with a local specialist and get clarity before a dangerous situation becomes a bigger problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove a dangerous tree without council permission?
You may remove or make safe a dangerous tree without prior permission if there is an immediate risk to people or property. The work must be limited to what is necessary, and you should be able to justify your decision afterwards.
Does storm damage automatically count as an emergency?
Not always. Some storm damage creates immediate danger, while other damage does not. Each situation depends on risk, not weather alone. Professional advice helps avoid mistakes.
What if the tree has a Tree Preservation Order?
Protected trees can still be worked on in emergencies, but you must act reasonably and keep evidence. Protection does not disappear, so accountability remains important.
What evidence should I keep after emergency work?
Clear photos, notes on what happened, and professional advice are usually sufficient. This shows that the decision was based on safety, not convenience.
Who should I speak to first if I’m unsure?
If you’re unsure whether a tree is dangerous or whether permission is needed, speaking to a local tree specialist first is often the safest option. It reduces risk and uncertainty.