Protected trees
Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)
There are standards and regulations that need to be followed when planning work to or near trees.
There are additional conditions attached to trees that are protected under TPOs.
A TPO:
- makes it a criminal offence to cut down, uproot, damage or destroy a protected tree
- requires you to complete and return an application to us for tree works.
You could face conviction or a fine of up to £20,000 if you complete works to a tree with a TPO and do not get the consent needed.
To complete works to trees you'll need to check if a tree is protected under a TPO and if so, apply for permission.
You may also need to get a felling licence if you plan to cut down a tree.
Trees in conservation areas
If a tree is in a conservation area but is not covered by a TPO, you’ll need to give written notice (a Section 211 notice) to the Local Planning Authority at least 6 weeks before the work starts.
You can get help submitting a Section 211 notice on the Planning Portal or get advice from a tree surgeon.
You do not need to give notice on a tree in a conservation area if it’s less than 7.5 centimetres in diameter, when measured from 1.5 metres above the ground.