Tree Surgery FAQs

Most routine tree work doesn’t require permission, but trees protected by a Tree Preservation Order, or within a conservation area, may need approval from Galway City or County Council first. Some trees outside urban areas may also need a felling licence. If you’re not sure, we’ll advise you during your free site visit.

Yes. We offer emergency callout for fallen, storm-damaged and dangerous trees across Galway. Our industry leading equipment and experienced crews mean we can usually respond quickly. Call us directly for urgent jobs.

Yes. We’re fully certified and insured, and our NPTC-certified arborists regularly carry out felling and pruning close to buildings, roads and overhead cables. We’re happy to provide insurance certificates on request.

Cost depends on the size of the tree, access to the site, and the type of work involved. We provide a free, no-obligation site visit and a clear, itemised quote before any work begins.

Yes. All timber, brash and debris is chipped and removed on the day, so your garden or site is left clean and tidy. We can also leave logs for firewood if you’d prefer to keep them.

Yes. We grind stumps to below ground level, either on the same visit as the tree removal or as a separate job. Our grinder fits through most garden gates.

Under the Wildlife Act, hedgerows shouldn’t be cut between 1 March and 31 August to protect nesting birds, with limited exemptions. We’ll advise on what’s possible for your hedge at different times of year.

Crown reduction reduces the overall height and spread of a tree. Crown thinning removes a proportion of smaller branches throughout the crown to let light and wind through, without changing the tree’s overall size.

Yes. Our arborists hold NPTC and City & Guilds certifications, and Elm is a professional member of the Arboricultural Association.

We aim to reply to every enquiry within one working day and will arrange a free site visit at a time that suits you. For urgent or dangerous trees, please phone us.

Yes. As well as homeowners, we work for businesses, schools, management companies and public bodies, and can provide method statements, risk assessments and insurance documentation.