Before you do any work on a tree, you must check if it is protected. You need to look for two things:
- Does it have a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)?
- Is it in a Conservation Area (CA)?
This rule applies to all types of work, including:
- Pruning
- Lopping (cutting side branches)
- Topping (cutting the top off)
- Felling (cutting the tree down)
If you work on a protected tree without permission, it is against the law. You could be fined up to £20,000 per tree.
The easiest way to check if a tree is covered by a TPO or in a Conservation Area is by using our interactive online mapping tool.
Check TPO and Conservation Area Boundaries on Our Interactive Map
Using the Map
- The mapping tool is only a guide to the boundaries.
- Before you do any planned work, you must check exactly what protection the tree has.
The process for seeking consent depends on how the tree is protected and what condition it is in.
Read the guidance on this page to follow the correct steps.
PermalinkUse this process for all planned work that does not fall under the “urgent/exempt” criteria in the table. For example, routine pruning, making a tree smaller (reduction), non-urgent felling.
Protection type |
Process |
Decision timeline |
| Tree subject to a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) | Application for Consent | 8 weeks |
| Tree in a Conservation Area (CA) | 6-week Notification of Intent to carry out works. | 6 weeks |
How to submit a standard application/notice:
- Apply Online (Recommended): Use the national Planning Portal service to submit your application or notification.
- Application Forms: You may also download and submit the standard application form and guidance notes:
Only use this process if the tree is:
- Dead
- Dangerous right now (posing an immediate risk of harm)
You must submit a 5-Day Dead or Dangerous Tree Statutory Notice
It replaces the old system. Please do not send an email.
PermalinkThe specific evidence needed to validate your notice depends on the reason for the work.
If you do not submit the correct evidence, your notice may be invalid. This could leave the landowner liable for unauthorised works.
Immediate risk of serious harm (dangerous tree)
Requirement |
Timing |
Evidence needed via online form |
| Statutory Timing | Written notice must be given as soon as practicable after the work becomes necessary. | Evidence of present serious risk:
* A written report or statement from a competent tree specialist (e.g., Lantra certified, Arboricultural Association recognised) clearly stating the tree presents an immediate serious safety risk and detailing the defect (e.g., structural failure, decay). * Detailed, high-quality photographs that clearly show the defect and the immediate risk it poses. |
| Work Limit | Work may only proceed to the extent necessary to remove the risk (e.g., only removal of the failing branch, not the whole tree, unless necessary). | Proportionate Solution: Confirmation that the proposed work (pruning or felling) is the minimum required to remove the identified risk. |
Dead tree (not covered by woodland classification)
Requirement |
Timing |
Evidence needed via online form |
| Statutory Timing | Written notice must be given at least 5 working days prior to the work being carried out. | Evidence of Mortality:
* A written statement or report from a competent person confirming the tree is legally dead. * Clear, high-resolution photographs showing the tree’s complete lack of vitality (e.g., dead canopy, decay fungi, extensive bark loss) and the species. |
Mandatory documentation for all 5-day notices
- A Location Plan clearly identifying the tree(s) on which work is proposed.
- A clear Description of the Proposed Works (e.g., “Fell to ground level,” “Remove 3m fractured limb”).
- Duty to Replant: Where a dead or dangerous tree is cut down (and is not part of a woodland), the landowner has a statutory duty to plant a replacement tree of an appropriate size and species.
- Conditions: If consent is granted, the council is allowed to attach conditions (for example, requiring the planting of replacement tree(s) or specifying how the works should be carried out).
- Appeals: There is a right of appeal to the Secretary of State if consent is refused.
- Guidance: For a comprehensive guide to the law and best practice on Tree Preservation Orders, please see the official Government advice and Planning Portal guidance.