The trees in these areas, over a specified size (7.5cm diameter stem, measured at 1.5m above the ground, 10cm if thinning to assist the growth of other trees) require tree works notification to be submitted. The provisions of which are set out in the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.
Anyone proposing to carry out works to trees in a conservation area is required to submit a notice to the council that will last for six weeks. During this period the council will determine whether to protect the tree(s) it considers a significant amenity by serving a preservation order. The council may suggest lesser works that would remove the need for TPO but only if the notifier is happy to accept a revision in writing.
Apply online on the planning portal
An Arboricultural Officer will inspect your tree within the six week notice period.
If the tree is considered healthy, in good condition from a remote visual location and an important feature to the character and appearance of the conservation area then we may decide to place a Tree Preservation Order on it. Once a TPO is served it prevents tree work described in the notification from being undertaken and would require a formal TPO tree works application to be submitted.
If you do not hear from us after the six-week period and unless there have been no requests for additional information for the council to the applicant/agent then you may proceed with the intended work. You may wish to check with the Arboricultural Officer first that no objections have been raised.
Find out whether you are in a conservation area using our online mapping system.