Tree PreservationTree Preservation Orders in the UK are legal orders made by local councils to protect some trees and woodlands in the interest of amenity, biodiversity, and conservation. These orders are placed on trees to prevent the loss or damage to certain trees that are considered to have significant value to their local environment, area, and community.
Once the order is in place, it is an offence to cut down, uproot, top, lop, or willfully damage any of the trees specified. No work of any kind may be undertaken without the local authority’s prior consent. The order applies to every part of the tree, including roots, and can also include trees within hedges in some cases.
Tree Preservation Orders can be placed on trees of any size, Maturity, or species and can cover individual trees or entire areas. Local authorities issuing TPOs are not restricted to conservation areas if they believe the tree has significant amenity value. If a tree is subject to a Tree Preservation Order, it is the owner’s responsibility to apply for consent before carrying out work on the tree.
If the owner is found to have carried out works without the local authority’s consent, they can be prosecuted and fined. It’s worth noting that exemptions can be made in certain circumstances, such as if the tree is dead or dangerous. However, these exemptions must be granted by the local authority, who still require prior notification. A tree officer may also visit to verify the need for exemption.
Bury: Tree Preservation and Preservation
Derbyshire: Tree Preservation Orders
Manchester: Tree Preservation Orders & Trees in Conservation Areas
Oldham: Protected Trees
Stockport: Tree Preservation
Trafford: Tree Preservation Orders
