What Counts as Tree Waste?
Tree waste includes any material produced from tree maintenance, surgery, or removal:
Branches and boughs — from pruning or storm damage
Tree trunks and logs — from felling
Tree stumps and roots — from complete removal
Leaves and twigs — seasonal or from clearance work
Wood chippings — from processed branches
Tree waste is classified as green waste or garden waste under UK waste regulations.
How to Dispose of Tree Waste
1. Garden Waste Collection (Council)
Many councils offer a fortnightly garden waste collection service via a brown bin or reusable sacks. This typically costs £35–£80 per year and is ideal for small quantities of branches and cuttings.
Limitations:
Branches usually need to be cut to under 1 metre
Large volumes won't fit in a single collection
Not suitable for tree trunks, stumps, or roots
2. Household Waste Recycling Centre
Your local tip will accept tree waste in the green waste section. Suitable for:
Car boot loads of branches
Small quantities of logs
Bagged leaves and twigs
Note: Some centres restrict trailer loads or require advance booking.
3. Licensed Waste Carrier
For large-scale tree removal — especially whole trees, stumps, or multiple trees — a licensed waste carrier is the most practical option. Many tree surgeons are licensed carriers themselves.
Find tree waste removal services on WasteFindr.
4. Wood Recycling
Tree waste has multiple reuse opportunities:
Firewood — seasoned logs (dried for 1–2 years) make excellent fuel
Wood chippings — use as mulch for garden paths and borders
Composting — smaller branches and leaves can be composted
Community projects — local wood recycling organisations may accept large timber
5. Skip Hire
A green waste skip is suitable for large clearance projects. Ensure the skip company accepts garden/tree waste specifically.
Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)
Before removing any tree, check whether it's protected:
Tree Preservation Orders — your local council can confirm
Conservation areas — 6 weeks' notice required before felling
Felling licences — required from the Forestry Commission for felling more than 5 cubic metres per calendar quarter
Failure to comply carries fines of up to £20,000 in magistrates' court or unlimited fines in Crown Court.
Stump Removal
Tree stumps can be dealt with in several ways:
Stump grinding — a machine grinds the stump below ground level (£50–£300)
Chemical treatment — potassium nitrate speeds natural decomposition (takes 6–12 months)
Excavation — complete removal with a mini digger (creates significant waste)
The resulting waste from stump grinding (wood chippings mixed with soil) can usually be used as mulch.
Key Takeaways
Tree waste is classified as green/garden waste
Small quantities can go in council garden waste collections
Large tree removal projects need a licensed waste carrier
Check for Tree Preservation Orders before any felling
Tree waste has good reuse potential as firewood, mulch, or compost