T.P.O. Advice
Not sure if your tree is protected, or what that actually means for work you want done? We'll help you find out, and guide you through what happens next.
What a Tree Preservation Order actually means
A Tree Preservation Order, or TPO, is made by the local planning authority to protect a specific tree, group of trees, or area of woodland. If your tree has one, it's an offence to cut down, top, lop, uproot, or otherwise damage it without the council's written consent, and that includes work that seems minor, not just full removal.
Trees within a conservation area can also be protected even without an individual TPO, usually requiring formal written notice to the council before any work goes ahead. Rules and exemptions vary by case and by local authority, so if there's any doubt, it's always worth checking before work starts, not after.
How we help: we can check whether your tree is likely to be protected, survey the tree properly, and if consent is needed, help prepare and submit the application to your local authority, explaining what's realistic and what isn't before you commit to anything.
What's included
- Checking whether your tree is likely to be protected
- Honest advice on what work is realistic to apply for
- Help preparing and submitting the application
- Carrying out the work once consent is granted
T.P.O.s, answered
How do I find out if my tree has a TPO?
Your local council holds the records, and some publish an interactive map online. If you're not sure, we're happy to help you check, or you can contact your local planning authority's tree officer directly.
What happens if work is done without consent?
Carrying out unauthorised work on a protected tree is a criminal offence and can result in significant fines. It's always worth checking first, we'd rather tell you "no" before the chainsaw comes out than after.
Do all trees in a conservation area need permission?
Many do, generally trees above a certain size, and typically require formal written notice to the council before work starts, even without an individual TPO in place. Rules vary by council, so it's worth checking your specific situation.
Can a TPO application be refused?
Yes. Consent isn't automatic, and the council will weigh up factors like the tree's condition, contribution to the area, and the reason for the proposed work. We'll always give you an honest view on how realistic an application is before you go ahead.
Not sure where you stand?
Get in touch before any work starts, we'll help you find out what's actually allowed.