Tree Preservation

Trees are a very important feature within the Borough because of their distinctive contribution to the environment of the town. To protect healthy trees which contribute to the character and visual amenities of the area, trees can be protected by a Tree Preservation Order. Currently there are over 750 Tree Preservation Orders in force throughout the Borough protecting an estimated 5,000 trees.

A Tree Preservation Order protects a tree against lopping or felling without the permission of the Council, except in certain cases where the tree is dead or dying, or a danger to the public.

It is an offence to carry out works to trees covered by a Tree Preservation Order or trees within Conservation Areas and the penalties on summary conviction can be severe ranging from a fine of up to £20,000 or imprisonment or both.

Trees within Conservation Areas are also protected. If you are intending to carry out any work to a preserved tree or if you are in doubt as to whether a tree is preserved or within a Conservation Area please contact the Planning Section to clarify whether consent will be required for the works.

For further information and advice please contact Planning and Building Control.

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