Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs): What You Can and Can’t Do

If you have trees on your property, there’s a chance one or more might be protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO). These orders are put in place by local councils to protect trees that bring significant amenity, environmental, or historical value to an area.

Understanding how TPOs work — and what they mean for you as a homeowner — helps you care for your trees responsibly and avoid potential fines or disputes.

What Is a Tree Preservation Order?

A TPO is a legal order made by a local planning authority (your local council) to protect specific trees, groups of trees, or woodlands. Once a TPO is in place, you must get written consent from the council before carrying out any work to the tree. These rules apply even if the tree is on your private property.

How to Find Out if a Tree Has a TPO

If you’re unsure whether a tree on your land is protected, contact your local council’s planning or tree officer. Most councils keep an online map of all Tree Preservation Orders, or you can make a quick enquiry by phone or email.

Before any tree work is planned, your arboricultural consultant or tree surgeon can also check this for you — Ecovo routinely verifies TPO status as part of every assessment.

Applying for Permission

If you want to carry out work on a protected tree, you’ll need to submit an application to your local planning authority. This can usually be done online and should include:

• Your contact details and property address

• A clear description of the work proposed

• Reasons for the work (e.g. safety, health, or light improvement)

• Supporting evidence, such as a tree report or photographs

The council will assess your application and may send an officer to inspect the tree before making a decision. Most applications are decided within 8 weeks.

When You Don’t Need Permission

There are a few exceptions where consent isn’t required:

• Removing dead or dangerous wood (although the council should still be notified)

• Trees that are under a Forestry Commission felling licence

• Trees that are causing an immediate safety risk — in which case, take photos and inform the council as soon as possible

If you’re unsure, always seek advice before taking action — unintentional breaches can still lead to penalties.

What Happens if You Ignore a TPO

Carrying out unauthorised work on a protected tree is a criminal offence. Fines can be up to £20,000 per tree in a magistrates’ court, or unlimited if the case goes to Crown Court. You may also be required to plant a replacement tree in the same location.

How Ecovo Can Help

At Ecovo, we provide clear, practical guidance for homeowners dealing with Tree Preservation Orders. We can:

• Check whether your trees are protected

• Prepare professional reports to support your TPO application

• Liaise with your local authority on your behalf

• Recommend safe, compliant management options

Our goal is to help you look after your trees responsibly — while staying within the law and maintaining the beauty and value of your property.

Need advice about a protected tree? Get in touch with Ecovo for clear, professional guidance before you start any work.