What Is a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)?

A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is a legal protection placed on individual trees, groups of trees or woodlands by the local planning authority. Its purpose is to protect trees that provide significant public amenity, landscape value or environmental benefits.

If a tree is protected by a TPO, permission is usually required before carrying out certain types of work.

Why Are Tree Preservation Orders Used?

Local authorities use TPOs to protect trees that make an important contribution to the local environment.

This may include trees that:

• Improve the appearance of an area

• Provide wildlife habitat

• Have historical importance

• Contribute to biodiversity

• Enhance streets, parks and open spaces

What Work May Require Permission?

Depending on the circumstances, permission may be required before:

• Removing a tree

• Crown reducing

• Crown thinning

• Crown lifting

• Removing major branches

• Carrying out significant pruning

Always check with your local planning authority if you are unsure whether permission is required.

How Do I Find Out If My Tree Has a TPO?

Your local council can usually confirm whether a tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order.

If you're arranging professional tree work, an experienced tree surgeon can also advise you on the appropriate checks before work begins.

What Happens If Work Is Carried Out Without Permission?

Unauthorised work to a protected tree can result in enforcement action and other legal consequences.

For this reason, it is always advisable to establish whether legal protection applies before any significant tree work is undertaken.

Does a TPO Mean No Work Can Ever Be Done?

No.

Protected trees can often still be managed appropriately.

Where necessary, permission may be granted for suitable tree work, particularly where there are sound arboricultural reasons or safety concerns.

Each application is considered on its own merits by the local authority.

Professional Advice Matters

If you're uncertain whether your tree is protected, professional advice can save time and help ensure any work is carried out in accordance with the relevant requirements.

Checking first is always preferable to discovering a problem after work has already begun.

Contact Dragonfly Tree & Garden Services

Dragonfly Tree & Garden Services provides professional tree surgery throughout Cannock, Burntwood, Hednesford, Penkridge, Rugeley, Lichfield and surrounding Staffordshire villages.

Whether you require tree inspections, crown reduction, tree removal or general tree maintenance, we are happy to provide honest advice and a free, no-obligation quotation.