Tree preservation orders

A tree preservation order is an order made by the Council which in general makes it an offence to cut down, top, lop, uproot, wilfully damage or wilfully destroy a tree without the planning authority's permission.

The purpose of a tree preservation order is to protect trees which make a significant impact on their local surroundings. This is particularly important where trees are in immediate danger. All types, including hedgerow trees, but not hedges, bushes or shrubs. The order can cover anything from a single tree to woodlands.