Tree Protection: Permission for Felling and Pruning

If you're considering pruning branches or completely felling a tree on your property, you might need to obtain specific planning permission or notify your Local Planning Authority (LPA) beforehand. Whether this applies to you depends entirely on if a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) protects the tree or if it's located within a designated conservation area.

Unsure about a tree's protected status or need more information? Always contact your local council for clarity before proceeding with any work.

Understanding Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)

Many trees across the country are legally protected by Tree Preservation Orders. If a tree on your land is subject to a TPO, you generally must secure explicit consent from your council before undertaking any pruning or felling work.

Even if a neighbour's tree is protected by a TPO and its branches extend over your boundary, you are still required to contact your local planning authority for guidance before you attempt to prune them.

Trees Located in Conservation Areas

For any tree situated within a conservation area, you have a legal obligation to inform your Local Planning Authority at least six weeks before you plan to commence any work on it.

It's vital to note a specific rule: if a tree is both protected by a TPO and also lies within a conservation area, the Tree Preservation Order's regulations take precedence. In such scenarios, you must strictly adhere to the requirements set forth by the TPO.

For comprehensive details and official guidance, you can explore the government's resources on Tree Preservation Orders and trees in conservation areas.