Trees and hedges guidance

A conservation area is an area of special architectural or historic interest, the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance.

Trees often make an important contribution to the character of conservation areas and are therefore given special protection.

Read more about conservation areas here.

Applying for consent to carry out work to a protected tree

The notifications and applications can be submitted online via the national planning portal.

Read more about working on a protected tree on the planning portal.

It is illegal to cut down, uproot, prune, or otherwise destroy or damage a tree protected by a TPO without the council's consent. Doing so can result in fines in excess of £20,000 per tree.

Appealing against the council's decision if your application to carry out work is refused or allowed subject to conditions

Yes. Appeals are dealt with independently by the Planning Inspectorate.

Charges for making an application

There is no charge for making an application.