Tree preservation orders
The council can protect trees in the interests of the environment and public enjoyment, by making tree preservation orders (TPOs).
A TPO makes it an offence to cut down, top, lop, uproot, wilfully damage or wilfully destroy a tree without our permission. A TPO can apply to a single tree, a group of trees or woodland. It can include hedgerow trees and fruit trees.
To find out if a tree in your property or elsewhere is covered by an order, you can contact our Planning team on tel: 01923 278293 or 278294 or by using the email address at the bottom of the page.
The council is not responsible for protected trees – the owner of the land remains responsible for the trees, their condition and any damage they may cause.
Do you want to carry out work to a protected tree?
If so, you will need written permission from the council. There is no charge for this service. It’s a good idea to contact a tree surgeon to clarify what works are required first.
A tree work application form is available from the Planning team using the contact numbers above or the email address at the bottom of the page.
Please note that your application needs to include a sketch plan indicating which trees you wish to work on and any other distinguishable features within the site.
Once we have received your application, we will send you a reference number and arrange for an officer to visit the site and make a recommendation. The whole process can take up to 6 weeks.
If you are not happy with the decision of the council or any conditions which may be attached to the consent, you can appeal in writing within 28 days of the decision notice to the Secretary of State. Details of the appeal process will be included within your decision notice.
If you carry out works to a protected tree without permission, you could be fined up to £20,000.
Further information relating to Tree Preservation Orders can be obtained from:
- Arboricultural Association – for a list of approved contractors to carry out work on trees and hedges, search www.trees.org.uk or tel: 01794 368717
- Community Legal Service (CLS)– helps people to find the right legal advice. There are CLS Information Points in local libraries. Or else search www.clsdirect.org.uk or tel: 0845 345 4 345 for your nearest Community Legal Service provider
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