TPOs

Protected Trees – TPOs and Conservation Areas

What is a TPO or Conservation area?

Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) are orders made by the local authority to protect individual trees, groups or areas of trees, or woodland. If your trees are protected by a TPO you will need permission from your local authority to carry out any work (except in a very few exempted situations) to the trees. Similarly, if you live within a conservation area you also need to apply to work on any trees as well as hedges.

How do I know if my trees are protected?

Most local authority websites now offer a map service where you can see if there are any TPOs or conservation areas covering your property. If in doubt, always call or email the local authority to make sure.

What if I carry out work to my trees without permission?

Currently the penalty for carrying out work to protected trees without permission is a fine of up to £20,000.

What is involved in the application process?

The process involves completing the necessary paper work and submitting it to the council as well as any subsequent correspondence to follow. Typically the application process takes between 6-8 weeks from the council’s receipt of an application until a decision is made and registered.

How do I apply to work on protected trees?

Customers with protected trees may wish to make the application themselves by following the instructions on their local authority’s website or they may prefer us to make the application on their behalf.

How much does it cost?

We charge a £50(+VAT) fee to submit and manage any applications with the local authority. This is an administration fee, and although we have a 94% success rate with applications and an excellent working relationship with many of the local authorities, the council has the right to refuse consent to any application and so our fee does not guarantee a favourable outcome.

If you would like to discuss your protected trees, Contact Us.