Protected trees and conservation areas

Some trees are protected by a tree preservation order (TPO). All trees with a trunk wider than 7.5cm are protected if they're in a conservation area.

Check if a tree is protected

Use the map to see tree preservation orders and conservation areas. Enter an address or postcode.

Check the map

If the tree is protected

You must apply for permission before you cut down, prune or lop a protected tree. It's free to apply. For a tree in a conservation area that does not have a TPO, you must give us 6 weeks' notice instead.

Apply for tree works on the Planning Portal

We'll decide within 8 weeks. You can be fined up to £20,000 for damaging a protected tree without permission.

If the tree is dangerous

You can make a dangerous tree safe without permission, but you must tell us 5 working days before, or straight away in an emergency.

Buying a property

To find out about tree preservation orders and other restrictions on a property you're buying, ask for a local land charges search.