Trees and Woodlands

All trees in our parks and streets were surveyed in 2007/2008. 38,000 trees were recorded and their species, age, size and condition are now recorded on our bespoke 'Ezytreeve' GIS-database.

This enables a proactive approach to managing trees in the city and prioritising the work of our Forestry Service. Surveyed trees can be identifed by a blue tag on their trunk.

Starting in January 2012 all trees on housing land in the East Neighbourhood area will be surveyed.  This work will be carried our by EnviroCentre Ltd on behalf of the City of Edinburgh Council. If you require any further information about this work please contact the East Neighbourhood's Senior Housing Officer.

X's on trees

When walking through Edinburgh you may notice crosses or spots marked on the trees, but what do they mean?

Trees marked with a yellow or orange cross have been identified as having Dutch Elm Disease. As part of the city councils sanitation programme these trees must be removed to prevent the disease spreading to other Elm trees.

Trees marked with a white cross are trees that have been highlighted as a potential risk to health and safety. There could be a number of reasons why these trees have been marked; not all are obvious. It does not mean however that these trees are an immediate risk to persons or property and will be removed in priority order.

Trees marked with a white spot means that other remedial works have been recommended. This could be anything from the removal of deadwood to a crown reduction.

To compensate for the felling of trees The City of Edinburgh Council has a annual tree planting programme which is implemented city wide.