What defines a "hazard tree"?

A "hazard tree" is specifically defined as a tree that poses a risk of falling or failing. This status is determined by various factors, including the tree's condition, structural integrity, and its environment. If a tree is decaying, has significant mechanical defects, or any other issues that can lead to its collapse, it represents a potential danger to people, property, or infrastructure nearby.

In practical terms, identifying hazard trees is crucial for safety, especially in areas where people gather or where trees are in proximity to power lines and roads. Proper assessment and management of these trees are essential to mitigate risks associated with falling branches or the tree itself. Healthy and thriving trees or recently pruned trees, on the other hand, are not necessarily classified as hazard trees since they do not exhibit the risks associated with structural failure. Native species, while important for environmental balance, do not inherently indicate safety or danger in the context of hazard trees.