Tree preservation orders explained

Local Planning authorities have specific powers to protect trees by making tree preservation orders, (TPO). Trees within conservation areas have automatic protection. In such areas, the local authority needs 6 weeks notice if you want to carry out works on any tree, therefore, ensuring the character of the area is protected.

A TPO in general makes it an offence to cut down, top, lop uproot, wilfully damage or destroy a tree without first gaining planning consent from the local authority. In other words you can do very little to a TPO’d tree without prior consent. A TPO is aimed at protecting the tree for everyone’s enjoyment, and a TPO can be applied to a single tree, group of trees or a woodland area. They cannot be applied to hedgerows, but can to hedgerow trees.

TPO information is held at the District Council Offices and this is where you go if you want to find out if a tree you are concerned about is protected. If you think a tree should be protected and it isn’t, let the Council officer know. Include a map and details about why you think the tree should be protected. If they agree they will write to the owner and interested parties serving notice of the making of the order. There are then 28 days when objections and support can be registered.

If you want to work on a tree that is protected you must get planning permission, except in certain circumstances including, for cutting back or down a tree:

However it is always best to contact the Planning Authority to seek guidance first, giving 5 days notice. If unauthorised work is carried out you will have to plant a new tree, and you could receive a large fine!