Posted: Sat Dec 13, 2008 4:33pm
Palm Tree Removal
Does anyone know the law on the removal of palm trees? Typically, I have heard several different tales, one that you are not allowed to chop them down, another that you are not allowed to remove them finally that some of the Garden centres will take them away.
Any help would be appreciated
Thanks
Hi Syd
This link might help you:
http://www.gomestic....and-Cons.287081Quote from it:
"If your palm tree has become a problem, you can't just remove it, even if it is on your property. For a start, you can't just dig it out. Even if you had suitable machinery, palm trees are protected by Spanish law. The local Ayuntamiento (Town Hall) will arrange to remove your tree for free, but there could be a long wait. In Torrevieja, for example, it can take almost two years to get your palm tree divorce, but smaller towns should deal with the matter more quickly.
At the Ayuntamiento, ask for the Â'Obras de Publicas y Jardines.' (Department of Public and Garden Works) Then fill in a form with your details and the reason you want the tree removed. If you don't live in Spain permanently, it may be better to ask a resident friend to deal with the tree removal on your behalf, because if the tree can't be removed when your turn comes, you go to the bottom of the pile again.
Another option for relocating your palm is to contact a large garden centre. Ensure they have the appropriate licence to do the job, otherwise you risk being on the wrong side of Spanish law, which is never a healthy option. There may be a charge for this, unless your palm is a particularly good specimen, in which case they may pay you to take it away. Check first, as it may be better to just wait for the Town Hall. Remember, a palm tree's not just for Christmas!"
Graham