Applying to work on a legally protected tree

Trees protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)

If you want to do any works to a tree protected by a Tree Preservation Order (not just felling), you must apply to the council for permission to do the works. There is no charge for this service.

Please apply for tree works online using the Planning Portal, ensuring we have all the relevant details including a site plan. Alternatively, please complete the application form for tree work and send it to the address shown at the top of the form.

Help with filling in the form and drawing a plan can be found in the guidance notes on completion of tree work application form.

If you send photos of the tree(s) you want to carry out work to this may help us to process your application more quickly.

Trees in a conservation area

All trees in a conservation area that have a stem/trunk diameter of 7.5 centimetres or larger, measured at 1.5 metres from the ground, are legally protected.

If you want to do any works to a protected tree in a conservation area, not just felling, you must formally notify the district council. There is no charge for this service. We have six weeks in which to consider the proposed works. If the council do not support the works proposed, a Tree Preservation Order will be made to prevent the works taking place. Tree Preservation Orders can be made at any time. Even after the six weeks have passed.

Please apply for tree works online using the Planning Portal, ensuring we have all the relevant details including a site plan. Alternatively, please complete the application form for tree work and send it to the address shown at the top of the form.

Help with filling in the form and drawing a plan can be found in the guidance notes on completion of tree work application form.

If you send photos of the tree(s) you want to carry out work to this may help us to process your notification more quickly

When we have received the completed form

The application or notification will be registered and an acknowledgement letter sent to you or your agent. This will specify the date that a decision should be reached by. 

Our tree and landscape officer may need to visit the site to inspect the tree(s) in question.

You do not need to be at home when the officer calls but if you want to talk to the tree and landscape officer, or if the officer is unable to access the tree(s) if you are not at home, this should be noted on the form and a suitable date and time will be arranged. 

Amenity and arboricultural considerations will be considered, along with reasons you have given for the work.

Appeals

Once you have received the council’s decision on your application, if you are unhappy with the result (this only applies to applications for works to trees which are protected by a Tree Preservation Order) you can appeal to the Secretary of State. This process is free of charge. Information about how to do this will be on your decision letter.