tree preservation orders

Tree Preservation Orders are made by a local authority in order to protect trees which make a significant impact on their local surroundings. All species of trees can be protected but not hedges, bushes or shrubs. Tree Preservation Orders can protect trees of any age and can protect a single tree to whole woodlands. Tree owners still remain responsible for the maintenance of their trees and any damage that they may cause.

The effect of Tree Preservation Orders is to protect trees and the order prohibits the felling or pruning of trees without the written consent from the local authority. If a protected tree is cut down without consent anyone found liable could be fined up to £20,000 in a magistrates court.

• A tree preservation order can apply to any type or variety of tree
• Tree preservation orders are made by the local authority

Advice on new Tree Preservation Orders

Under the Town & Country Planning Act 1990, a Council has the power to protect trees in the interests of amenity by making Tree Preservation Orders. A new Order is made by serving a notice on all affected persons whereby tree owners and any interested parties may endorse or object to the order.
Sylva Consultancy is able to provide advice in regard to new and existing tree preservation orders. As a tree consultant firm in Oxford we aim to give you the best independent advice.

Submissions of applications in regard to works on trees subject to Tree Preservation Orders (TPO’s).

From the 1st October 2008 The Town and Country Planning (Trees) (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2008 (the Regulations) make the use of a standard application form, mandatory for all applications to prune or fell trees which are protected by a TPO. An important element of the new procedures is the requirement to provide specific information in support of applications for work relating to trees which is required because of their condition or the damage they are causing to property.
Sylva Consultancy is able to submit applications for works on behalf of their clients and where appropriate write reports in support of the application.

Appeals

The 2008 Regulations also introduce, a new fast-track appeal system and Inspectors will only be able to consider the information provided with the original application; there will be no written representations procedure available, however the appellant can still request for the appeal to heard as an Informal Hearing or Public Inquiry. Sylva Consultancy is able to provide advice in regard to appeals and represent clients at Appeal.