Management of Protected Trees
In England trees may be legally protected in a number of different ways. The laws exist to protect the values that our trees and woodlands confer to us and our future generations. That been said, we know that owning legally protected trees can sometimes be challenging. Let us provide you with the best service to navigate protected trees the right way.
Tree Preservation Order (TPO) Applications
A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is a legal mechanism used to protect specific trees, groups of trees, or woodlands in the interest of public amenity. The main purpose of a TPO is to prevent the removal, destruction, or alteration of trees without prior permission from the local planning authority.
Unauthorised work on a tree protected by a TPO can result in substantial fines and a requirement to plant a replacement tree. We can help you stay legally compliant by providing advice and carrying out TPO Applications on your behalf.
Conservation Area (CA) Applications
In conservation areas (CA) there are some extra planning controls and considerations in place to protect the historic and architectural elements that help make the place special. Trees form an integral part of the built and natural environment, making a valuable contribution to the character of an area.
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Unauthorised work on trees in conservation areas can result in fines and legal action. The penalties can be substantial, reflecting the importance of preserving the character of conservation areas. We can help you stay the right side of the law by providing advice and carrying out CA Applications on your behalf.
Felling Licence Applications
The Forestry Commission controls tree felling by issuing felling licences. The need for a licence typically depends on the volume of timber to be felled and the area of land involved. Felling trees without a licence, where one would have been required, is an offence.
Felling trees without a licence when one is required can result in substantial fines and legal action. The specific penalties vary by jurisdiction but are designed to be significant enough to deter illegal felling. We can help you stay within the boundaries of the law by providing advice and carrying out Felling Licence Applications on your behalf.
Tree replacement programmes
Successful TPO and Felling Licence applications are often granted under conditions. More often than not this entails tree replacement and, more importantly, establishment.
Our Tree Replacement Programmes will help you find the right tree for your site whilst fulfilling your obligations and avoiding costs further down the line.
