If you’re considering cutting down or significantly pruning a tree, it’s important to understand that you may need permission before any work can begin. In the UK, certain trees are legally protected, and carrying out work without approval can result in fines or enforcement action.
This guide explains when permission is required, what Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) and Conservation Areas are, and how professional tree surgeons can help you stay compliant.
When permission is required
You generally do not need permission to carry out routine maintenance on trees, such as removing small dead branches, provided the tree is not protected and the work is minor.
However, permission is required if:
The tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)
The tree is located within a Conservation Area
The work involves felling, major pruning, topping, or lopping
Even if a tree is on private land, legal protections can still apply.
What is a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)?
A Tree Preservation Order is made by the local council to protect specific trees or woodlands that offer public amenity value. This could be due to their size, age, appearance, historical importance, or contribution to the local environment.
If a tree has a TPO, you must get written permission from the council before:
Cutting it down
Removing major branches
Topping, lopping, or uprooting
Carrying out work that could damage the tree
Breaching a TPO can result in significant fines, so it’s essential to check before starting any work.
Trees in Conservation Areas
If your property is in a Conservation Area, trees are automatically protected if their trunk diameter is over 75mm (measured at 1.5m above ground).
Instead of applying for permission, you must give the council six weeks’ written notice of your intention to carry out work. This allows them time to assess whether a TPO should be placed on the tree.
Failure to give notice can still result in penalties, even if the tree is not individually protected.
Are there any exceptions?
Yes — there are limited circumstances where permission may not be required, including:
Removing dead trees or dead branches (although evidence may be required)
Trees that pose an immediate danger to people or property
Certain works carried out by statutory bodies
Even in emergency situations, it’s strongly recommended to document the condition of the tree (with photos) and seek professional advice before proceeding.
How to check if a tree is protected
Local councils maintain records of TPOs and Conservation Areas. You can usually:
Search your council’s website
Contact the planning department directly
Ask a qualified tree surgeon to check on your behalf
Professional arborists regularly deal with protected trees and can confirm what permissions are needed before work begins.
The application process
If permission is required, an application must be submitted to the council detailing:
The tree’s location and species
The proposed work
The reason for the work (e.g. safety, damage, disease)
Councils typically respond within 8 weeks for TPO applications and 6 weeks for Conservation Area notices. During this time, no work should be carried out unless the tree poses an immediate risk.
Why professional advice matters
Tree protection laws can be complex, and honest mistakes can still lead to enforcement action. A professional tree surgeon can:
Check protection status
Advise on what work is permitted
Prepare and submit applications if required
Ensure work is carried out legally and safely
In many cases, councils are more receptive to applications submitted with professional arboricultural input and clear justification.
Replacing removed trees
If a protected tree is approved for removal, councils often require a replacement tree to be planted. This helps maintain the local tree canopy and environmental benefits.
A tree surgeon can advise on suitable replacement species and planting locations to meet these requirements.
Before cutting down or heavily pruning a tree, it’s essential to check whether permission is required. Tree Preservation Orders and Conservation Area rules exist to protect valuable trees, and ignoring them can lead to serious consequences.
Looking for a tree surgeon Cirencester? At Arb Solutions, we help residential and commercial clients navigate tree protection regulations, from checking permissions to carrying out approved work safely and professionally. If you’re unsure whether your tree is protected, our experienced team is here to help.
