Removal of trees
We try to keep as many trees as possible. However, sometimes removal is the most appropriate course of action.
We value the trees that we have and aim to protect them for future generations. Where trees are damaged by third parties or we are asked to remove trees to allow changes or improvements to the highway, we use a system called the Capital Asset Value for Amenity Trees (CAVAT). This puts a value on the benefits trees provide such as:
- improving air quality and reducing pollutants and fine particulates
- reducing carbon dioxide in the atmosphere
- improving physical and mental health
- providing habitat and protection to plants and animals and increasing biodiversity
- increasing property values.
The system is an expert-based, nationally recognised amenity tree valuation tool which provides a basis for managing publicly maintained trees as assets rather than liabilities. The system uses a formula based on trunk size which is adjusted for the tree's health and function and its value to the community.
It has been designed to assist local authorities in achieving an appropriate level of compensation where publicly owned trees are damaged or removed by utility companies, crossover applicants and developers or to facilitate access to the highway for new developments.
To help decide if a tree is unsafe and should be removed, we sometimes use specialist equipment which shows the decay of tree.
If a disease is found
We work with industry experts, governing bodies and other local authorities to manage any outbreaks of tree pests and diseases that threaten Kent’s tree asset.
Find out more about how we manage ash dieback.
Removal of stumps
If we must cut down trees, the stumps will be cut at approximately one metre in height. This is less likely to be a trip hazard.
We aim to remove stumps from grass verges within 3 months. However, funds currently restrict the removal of stumps within a hard surfaces such as pavements, and these may remain for a number of years prior to removal.
Our fees and charges
| Request type | Fees for 2025 to 2026 | Fees for 2026 to 2027 |
|---|---|---|
Charges for damage or removal of highway tree assets. We value our trees using the Capital Asset Valuation for Amenity Trees (CAVAT). CAVAT takes the replacement value approach, extrapolating from known planting costs and adjusting for a series of relevant factors including: diameter of tree at 1.5m above ground level CTI factor CAVAT functional factor life expectancy of the tree We may pursue for damages as the actual (uncapped) CAVAT value of the tree. The current maximum CAVAT value is £236,000 per tree. | The full CAVAT value per tree. | The full CAVAT value per tree. |
Loss of a highway tree asset to facilitate a single/ joint dwelling light vehicle crossover application may be considered where an assessment of the tree’s condition and remaining life expectancy is deemed limited by our Tree Officer. Each tree will be assessed on a case by case basis. The cost of 2 replacement trees and 3 years associated aftercare will be sought from the applicant. | Ranging from £1,203 up to £2,019 for 2 replacement trees depending on site type (requirement for civils involvement) | Ranging from £1,323 up to £2,220 for 2 replacement trees depending on site type (requirement for civils involvement) |
| Emergency clearance of private trees and vegetation that have fallen on the highway, are obstructing the highway or present a risk to highway users either as a result of a weather event or following an inspection. | Full cost recovery (including staff time) | Full cost recovery (including staff time) |
Charges for damage or removal of highway soft landscape assets including Hedge, Shrubs and Grass verges. Loss of soft landscape assets is calculated using the cost to replace combined with the prevailing biodiversity value as assessed by a our Landscape Officer. | Full cost of reinstatement using similar size stock plus biodiversity value (Including staff time) | Full cost of reinstatement using similar size stock plus biodiversity value (Including staff time) |
Loss of a highway soft landscape asset including hedges, shrubs and grass verges to facilitate a single/ joint dwelling light vehicle crossover application are considered where an assessment of the assets condition, biodiversity value and quality has been reviewed by a our Landscape Officer. Each application will be assessed on a case by case basis. | Full cost of reinstatement using similar size stock plus biodiversity value (Including staff time) | Full cost of reinstatement using similar size stock plus biodiversity value (Including staff time) |