You may be surprised to learn that some trees are legally protected under Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) or conservation area rules when it comes to managing trees on your property. These regulations are crucial for protecting certain trees that hold significant environmental or historical value and help preserve the character of local landscapes. In this post, we’ll dive into what TPOs and conservation areas mean for homeowners and how you can navigate these requirements with confidence.

What is a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)?

A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is a legal order issued by local authorities to protect specific trees or groups of trees. Typically, a TPO is placed on trees that have high amenity value or contribute positively to the area’s aesthetics. With a TPO in place, you can’t:

• Cut down
• Prune
• Uproot
• Damage

any part of the protected tree without permission from the local council. If you’re considering work on a tree and think it may be protected, check with your local planning authority to avoid fines or penalties.

Why Do Conservation Areas Affect Tree Work?

If your property is in a designated conservation area, you’re required to notify the local council before performing any tree work. This rule covers all trees with trunks exceeding 75mm in diameter at a height of 1.5 meters. Conservation areas are intended to preserve historic and architecturally significant neighborhoods, which means tree work requires additional permissions to keep the area’s character.

Steps to Take if Your Tree is Protected

1. Consult Your Local Planning Authority
   Before conducting any work, contact your local authority or planning department to verify if a tree is protected. They can inform you if a TPO is in place or if the tree is within a conservation area.
2. Submit an Application or Notice
   For TPOs, you’ll need to submit an application detailing the proposed work. For trees in conservation areas, a simple notification may suffice, though you may still need to provide details about the work you intend to carry out. The council usually responds within six weeks for conservation area notices.
3. Enlist Professional Tree Care Services
   T&L Tree Management can handle all aspects of tree work for protected trees. Our experienced team is well-versed in the guidelines for TPOs and conservation areas, ensuring your tree management needs align with local regulations. From pruning to more extensive tree care, we’ll work with you to preserve both the safety and beauty of your landscape.

Why Protecting Trees Benefits Everyone

Protected trees enhance urban and suburban environments by improving air quality, reducing noise, and providing habitats for wildlife. Compliance with TPOs and conservation area guidelines helps ensure that future generations can enjoy these benefits. At T&L Tree Management, we understand that each tree plays a role in the bigger ecological picture, and we’re dedicated to helping you care for them responsibly.

Contact Us:
T&L Tree Management Ltd
Tel: 07800 877638
Email: tandltrees@gmail.com