how do you kill a tree?

[dp400]

I have a mature tree right outside my house which is preventing me from using my front garden as a drive. Ive applied to the council to have the tree removed and a dropped kerb put in, but the council have refused as it it against thier policy to remove a mature tree unless it is dead or damaged. If "someone" wanted to, how would you go about killing a tree? Any suggestiond greatfully recieved.