Highways and street trees
Street trees in the Lewes district
As the Highway Authority, East Sussex County Council are responsible for trees and shrubs located on land owned by them. This usually relates to trees within the highway boundary (inclusive of street trees) and on land adjacent to the highway, but not to trees located on private land. They can also deal with trees and shrubs that obstruct or cause a danger to the public highway.
Street trees in Eastbourne
From 1 April 2026, responsibility for the management and maintenance of street trees in Eastbourne will transfer to East Sussex County Council Highways (ESCC), the Highway Authority. From this date, any enquiries or reports relating to street trees should be directed to ESCC Highways through their website:
Street trees are those located within the public highway boundary, including pavements and verges, or on land owned by the Highway Authority.
Eastbourne Borough Council will continue to deal with enquiries relating to trees on Council owned land, such as those located in parks, open spaces and other Council managed sites.
