Tree works

You can carry out any works to your trees without our permission as long as it is not:

• covered by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)
• within a conservation area
• restricted by a planning condition on a previously approved application

You will need to apply for permission if the tree is covered by one of the restrictions above. 

Applying for permission

To apply for permission for works to trees:

• covered by a TPO or within a conservation area, complete the works to trees subject to a tree preservation order (TPO) and/or notification of proposed works to trees in a conservation area form
• with a condition restricting works, complete the 'removal of a condition following grant of planning permission' form. Please check the  validation requirements (Word doc) [245KB] for the information you need to submit with this application

Tree advice

We are unable to give general tree advice - e.g whether your tree is diseased or should be pruned. To seek advice please contact a tree surgeon. 

Neighbouring trees

If a neighbour's tree is hanging over into your garden and you want to cut it back, you should speak to your neighbour before doing any works. If the tree is covered by any of the restrictions above, you will still need to apply to us to do any works to it. 

The Forestry Commission

The Forestry Commission controls tree felling by issuing felling licences - further advice can be found at Tree felling licence: when you need to apply - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Their website also has an interactive map showing where felling licenses have been granted.