Urban tree pruning is a key action to guarantee safety, harmonious coexistence, and the proper management of public space. In municipalities like El Masnou, where trees coexist closely with homes, infrastructure, and pedestrian areas, adequate technical planning is essential. In this context, the El Masnou City Council has launched a specific municipal tree pruning project, aimed at addressing specific needs for maintenance, safety, and conservation of the green heritage, ensuring responsible management aligned with the current needs of the municipality. Espais Verds del Vallès is the company awarded the contract, and through this project, we will actively contribute to the conservation of the municipality’s green heritage, guaranteeing the well-being of citizens and environmental balance.
THE IMPORTANCE OF PRUNING IN URBAN ENVIRONMENTS

Image: El Masnou – arteinformando
Urban tree management is one of the most important tasks for the maintenance of public spaces. Properly planned pruning is crucial for public safety, urban harmony, and the preservation of green spaces.
In this context, the El Masnou City Council has launched a specific project for pruning municipal trees, aimed at addressing the municipality’s immediate needs in the care and maintenance of green spaces.
Trees in the city coexist with elements not found in nature: road traffic, pedestrians, building facades, power lines, streetlights, etc. This reality necessitates regular technical interventions to:
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- Reduce the risk of falling branches.
- Ensure visibility at intersections and roads.
- Prevent interference with infrastructure.
- Improve the tree’s structural stability.
- Adapt growth to the available space.
Improper pruning—or the lack thereof—can create safety problems and compromise the tree’s future development.
Why urban tree pruning is key in cities and towns
Urban tree pruning is a strategic action that goes far beyond simply trimming the trees.
When planned and executed with technical expertise, it becomes a key tool for improving safety, the quality of public spaces, and the efficient management of municipal resources.
BENEFITS OF MUNICIPAL PRUNING IN EL MASNOU
In the case of El Masnou, this project provides clear benefits that are directly noticeable to residents.

Image: Vallmora Park, El Masnou – Batlleiroig
Improved safety in public spaces
The controlled removal of dead, poorly oriented, or structurally hazardous branches significantly reduces incidents in streets and squares. This preventative action decreases the risk of falling branches and contributes to creating safer urban environments for pedestrians, vehicles, and homes.
Better coexistence between trees and the city
In urban environments, the natural growth of trees must adapt to the intensive use of public space. Pruning improves pedestrian and vehicular traffic flow by preventing tree canopies from encroaching on sidewalks, roadways, and walkways, ensuring a balanced coexistence between trees and the daily activities of the municipality.
Protection of buildings and infrastructure
Proper tree management helps prevent damage to facades, roofs, power lines, streetlights, and other urban services. Controlled pruning reduces interference with infrastructure and minimizes incidents that, if not addressed promptly, can lead to higher costs.
Conservation of municipal green heritage
A well-executed technical intervention promotes the development of more stable, balanced, and long-lived trees. Respectful pruning helps maintain the natural structure of the trees, extending their lifespan and preserving the landscape and environmental value of urban trees.
Reduction of risks during adverse weather events
Structurally adapting trees reduces their vulnerability to strong winds or heavy rain. This preventative approach is especially relevant in a context of increasingly frequent extreme weather events.
TYPES OF URBAN TREE PRUNING IN EL MASNOU
The municipal tree pruning project in El Masnou includes specific interventions adapted to the size, condition, and function of each tree, seeking to maximize the benefits for safety, tree health, and urban coexistence.
This approach allows for the treatment of a large number of trees using technical and sustainable criteria, ensuring that each intervention contributes to safety, plant health, and urban quality, in proportion to the size and needs of each tree.
Periodic pruning and hedge trimming

Image: Vallmora Park, El Masnou – Escapada con niños
Periodic pruning and hedge trimming consists of removing dead, poorly oriented, or structurally risky branches, respecting the tree’s natural shape.
Periodic pruning and hedge trimming is carried out on:
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- 249 medium-sized trees.
- 50 large trees.
Benefits of Periodic pruning and hedge trimming:
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- Increased safety in streets and squares.
- Prevention of falling branches.
- Preservation of the tree’s structure and vitality.
- Improved visibility at intersections and roads.
Tree maintenance pruning
Tree maintenance pruning has a lighter, more preventative approach, aimed at adjusting growth, removing problematic branches, and keeping the tree healthy without affecting its natural structure.
Tree maintenance pruning is carried out on:
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- 150 medium-sized trees.
- 20 large trees.
Benefits of Tree maintenance pruning:
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- Increases the lifespan of the trees.
- Reduces risks during periods of wind or heavy rain.
- Maintains urban aesthetics and the proper integration of the tree with sidewalks, streets, and buildings.
- Optimizes the use of the municipal budget by intervening in a planned manner.
MANAGEMENT OF URBAN TREES: BEYOND CUTTING BRANCHES
Urban pruning is not a mechanical task. It requires technical expertise, knowledge of the species, and experience in the urban environment.
Each intervention by Espais Verds del Vallès takes into account:
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- Tree species and age.
- Physiological state.
- Location and surroundings.
- Associated risks.
- Time of year.
This approach avoids aggressive pruning and prioritizes actions that balance safety and respect for the tree.
WORK METHODOLOGY: EXPERIENCE, SAFETY, AND SUSTAINABILITY IN MUNICIPAL PRUNING
The Espais Verds del Vallès pruning service in El Masnou is carried out following a rigorous methodology, aligned with current regulations and best practices in the sector.

Stock image
Prior technical planning
Before starting work, the trees to be pruned are assessed, taking into account the species, structural and phytosanitary condition, location, and risks associated with the urban environment.
Safe execution
Strict safety protocols are applied during pruning to protect both personnel and the public. This includes appropriate signage, access control, and the use of approved machinery.
Technical criteria applied
The interventions prioritize:
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- The health and stability of the tree.
- Respect for its natural structure.
- Minimizing plant stress.
- The safety of the urban environment.
Responsible management of green waste
The waste generated is managed in accordance with environmental regulations, promoting circular economy practices and reducing the environmental impact of the actions.
A KEY PROJECT FOR URBAN SAFETY AND THE MANAGEMENT OF MUNICIPAL GREEN SPACES IN EL MASNOU
The pruning of municipal trees in El Masnou is part of a broader vision for the city: safer, greener, and well-managed public spaces.

Image: Can Mandri, El Masnou – AR47
In a context marked by climate change, the increase in extreme weather events, and greater public awareness of the urban environment, professional tree management becomes a fundamental tool for prevention and adaptation.
This project demonstrates that pruning is not a one-off action, but a strategic decision that directly impacts:
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- Road and pedestrian safety.
- The protection of buildings and infrastructure.
- The quality of public space.
- The well-being of citizens.
Proper planning and a medium- and long-term vision are essential to ensure that urban trees fulfill their social, environmental, and landscape functions.
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE: COMMITMENT TO GREEN CITIES

Image: El Masnou – 365 sábados viajando
At Espais Verds del Vallès, we are reinforcing our commitment to caring for the environment and building greener, safer, and more sustainable cities. In a context of climate change and urban growth, professional tree management is more necessary than ever.
At Espais Verds del Vallès, we will continue to focus on innovation, ongoing training, and service excellence, working hand in hand with public authorities to care for one of the most valuable assets of our cities: urban green spaces.
Every tree we manage is part of a shared project: greener, more resilient, and more livable cities. Because every pruning action, every technical decision, and every act of care we give today is reflected in how we will experience the city tomorrow.
At Espais Verds del Vallès, we understand that caring for urban trees is not just a one-off intervention: it is an investment in safety, landscape, and quality of life.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT URBAN TREE PRUNING

Image: Vallmora Park, El Masnou – Wikimedia Commons
What is urban tree pruning?
Urban tree pruning is the set of technical interventions carried out on trees located in streets, squares, and public spaces with the aim of adapting their growth to the urban environment, improving safety, and preserving their structure in the long term.
Why is pruning necessary in cities?
In urban environments, trees coexist with pedestrians, vehicles, buildings, and infrastructure. Pruning allows us to:
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- Reduce the risk of falling branches.
- Prevent interference with cables and streetlights.
- Ensure visibility on public roads.
- Maintain a balanced coexistence between trees and the city.
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How often should an urban tree be pruned?
There is no single schedule. It depends on factors such as:
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- The species.
- The age of the tree.
- Its structural condition.
- Location
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Generally, regular maintenance pruning is carried out, avoiding excessive interventions that could weaken the tree.
Can all trees be pruned the same way?
No. Each species and each individual tree requires a specific approach. Proper pruning takes into account:
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- The tree’s natural architecture.
- Its physiological state.
- The immediate environment.
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Applying the same criteria to all trees can cause structural problems and reduce their lifespan.
What is the best time to prune urban trees?
The appropriate time depends on the species and the type of pruning. Many interventions are carried out during the dormant period, although in high-risk situations, targeted pruning can be done at any time of year.
Who should prune municipal trees?
Urban tree pruning should be carried out by specialized companies with personnel trained in urban arboriculture, working at heights, and occupational risk prevention, guaranteeing a safe and technically sound intervention.
What are the risks of improper urban tree pruning?
Incorrect pruning can lead to:
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- Structural weakening of the tree.
- The development of diseases.
- A greater risk of future breakage.
- Conflicts with residents.
- Increased costs in the medium term.
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That’s why it’s essential to apply technical criteria and planning.
What are the benefits of professional urban tree management?
Proper management allows for:
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- Increased safety in public spaces.
- Extended lifespan of trees.
- Reduced incidents and unforeseen costs.
- Improved urban landscape quality.
- Adapting urban green spaces to current needs.
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We care for our clients.
We care for the environment.
If you would like more information about our services or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at espaisverds@tma.es.
At Espais Verds del Vallès, we work for a greener, safer, and more sustainable future for all!
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