Safe Tree Planting near Highways: Finding the Right Distance

Safe Tree Planting near Highways: Finding the Right Distance

Planting trees near highways is a great way to enhance the beauty of the surroundings and improve air quality. However, it is crucial to find the right distance to ensure safety for both drivers and the trees. This video explores the importance of selecting the appropriate distance for tree planting near highways.

Planting trees too close to the highway can obstruct drivers' visibility and pose a risk of accidents. On the other hand, planting trees too far may not effectively mitigate pollution and noise levels. Finding the right balance is essential to create a safe and sustainable environment for everyone.

Watch the video to learn more about the considerations and guidelines for safe tree planting near highways.

Planting Trees near Highways: What's the Safe Distance

Planting trees near highways is a common practice that brings numerous benefits, such as enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the landscape, providing shade, reducing noise pollution, and improving air quality. However, it is important to consider the safe distance between trees and highways to ensure the well-being of both motorists and trees.

The safe distance for planting trees near highways depends on various factors, including the size and species of the tree, the speed limit of the road, and the specific conditions of the site. Generally, it is recommended to maintain a minimum distance of three meters for shrubs and small trees, and five meters for large forest trees, from the edge of the road.

Why is the safe distance important?

The safe distance between trees and highways is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that the branches and foliage of the trees do not obstruct the visibility of motorists or impede the safe passage of high-sided vehicles. Crown-lifting the trees to a height of at least 5.2 meters allows for the unobstructed movement of vehicles and prevents accidents caused by branches hitting passing vehicles.

Additionally, maintaining a safe distance helps in reducing the risk of tree branches encroaching on footways and footpaths. By crown-lifting the trees to a minimum height of 2.5 meters and ensuring a width of at least 1.2 meters for footpaths, safe passage for pedestrians, including those with mobility aids, is ensured.

It's important to note that these recommended heights and widths serve as acceptable standards, and any vegetation below these thresholds may be considered an obstruction. In such cases, authorities may enforce Section 152 of the Highways Act (1980) to ensure the clearance of any obstructions.

When planning tree works near highways, it is essential to consider the seasonal variations in tree growth. Wet, leaf-laden branches may droop lower than in their leafless state during winter, potentially causing hazards for motorists. Therefore, it is advisable to account for this drooping effect when determining the safe distance between trees and highways.

Tree preservation orders and conservation areas

Before carrying out any remedial works, landowners should check whether trees are subject to tree preservation orders or located within conservation areas. Tree preservation orders are legal protections that prevent the cutting down or removal of specific trees without prior permission. Conservation areas aim to safeguard the character and appearance of designated areas and may have additional restrictions on tree works.

Hedge maintenance

In addition to trees, hedges are also important features of roadside vegetation. Hedges should be appropriately trimmed for highway safety or as part of regular maintenance. Flailing should be avoided unless the hedge has been managed in this manner for at least five years. Trimmed hedge cuttings should be promptly cleared from carriageways and footways to prevent punctures and tripping hazards.

During the bird nesting season, trimming hedges should be avoided unless they obstruct highways or compromise safety. The most active period of the bird nesting season is typically from March to July, although it can extend from February to August. Checking for active nests before trimming is essential, as birds and their nests are protected by law.

Ditch maintenance

Proper maintenance of ditches is crucial for flood prevention. Ditches carry water from various sources, including farmland, residential and industrial areas, and roads, to rivers. They also serve as vital water storage areas during peak rainfall periods. Regular removal of silt, excessive weed and vegetation from ditches is necessary to ensure their effectiveness.

Landowners should be proactive in maintaining ditches, but they may need a license to work in an area if protected species, such as Great Crested Newts, are present. It is essential to check for any necessary permissions and seek advice from relevant authorities, such as the local district council or Natural England, before commencing any ditch maintenance works.

Street trees

The responsibility for maintaining street trees varies depending on the location. Some street trees in towns and villages are the responsibility of the local authorities, while others may be owned and maintained by private individuals, associations, or town and parish councils. Routine inspections are carried out to determine if any maintenance is necessary, typically involving crown-raising, thinning of branches, and removal of sucker stems.

However, it is important to note that unless there are public safety concerns, trees will not be removed or pruned to control seasonal inconveniences such as loss of light, leaf or fruit fall, excessive sap, honeydew, shading of solar panels, or interference with television reception. Each case is assessed individually, taking into account the tree management policy.

Subsidence caused by trees

Subsidence can be caused by various factors, and trees may contribute to this issue. However, before removing trees based on suspected subsidence, property owners should seek professional advice and provide evidence that the tree(s) are causing damage. This evidence typically includes an arboricultural report, crack monitoring data, soil analysis, and supporting evidence from insurance companies.

Tree roots and footpaths

Tree roots can occasionally damage footpaths, posing tripping hazards. In such cases, root pruning may be carried out under professional guidance or surface patching may be done to address the issue. When planting trees, consideration is given to minimizing future disturbance to footways by selecting suitable species.

Planting on the public highway

If you are a town or parish council, you can apply under Section 96 of the Highways Act to plant and maintain trees in your area. Householders can apply under Section 142 of the Highways Act to plant and maintain trees on the highway verge in front of their houses. However, proper approvals, including insurance coverage, are required.

It is essential to note that planting hedges or trees on the public highway without prior permission from the relevant authorities is illegal. The Oxfordshire Woodland Project promotes woodland planting off the highway.

Working on trees adjacent to a public highway

When working on trees adjacent to a public highway, it is vital to consider several factors, including contractor insurance, adherence to relevant British Standards, and compliance with New Roads and Street Works Act regulations. Proper signage, guarding, and high visibility vests are necessary to ensure safety. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in work being stopped.

Conclusion

Planting trees near highways can bring numerous benefits, but it is crucial to maintain a safe distance between trees and roads to ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians. Adhering to recommended standards and seeking appropriate permissions and advice from relevant authorities are essential when undertaking tree works near highways. By considering these factors, we can create a harmonious and safe environment where trees and highways coexist.

Safe Tree Planting near Highways: Finding the Right Distance

Planting trees near highways is a great way to improve air quality and beautify the landscape. However, it is crucial to find the right distance to ensure safety for drivers and minimize risks.

Research shows that a minimum distance of 50 feet from the edge of the road is recommended to prevent accidents and allow for proper visibility. This distance provides a buffer zone, reducing the chances of trees obstructing drivers' view or falling onto the road during storms or strong winds.

By following these guidelines, we can create a safer environment for both drivers and the environment, promoting a harmonious coexistence between trees and highways.