Trees in conservation areas
Trees are valued features of our towns and countryside and can make an important contribution to the character and sense of place of our local environment.
Trees that are protected in a conservation area:
- all trees with a stem diameter of 75mm or above, when measured at 1.5 metres from ground level
- individual trees covered by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)
Any proposal for the felling and pruning of trees within a conservation area that are not already protected by a TPO, require a six week notice to be submitted to us. This can be done via the same method as applying to carry out work to a tree protected with a TPO: Carrying out work to a protected tree
Following the receipt of such a notice we will look at the tree and decide whether the work notified will potentially harm the character and appearance of the conservation area.
If we consider the work would cause harm to the conservation area then we will seek to stop or control the work by the creation of a TPO.
If a TPO is not made within the 6 week period then the work can go ahead as notified. We can, at any time after the 6 week period expires, make a TPO prior to any work commencing.
A failure to notify us of proposed works prior to it being carried out is a criminal offence and may result in significant penalties for those involved following a successful prosecution.
There are similar exemptions as those for TPO protected trees allowing work to trees in conservation areas.