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A planning application is a formal request you submit to your local council to get approval for any proposed work on trees, particularly if they are within a conservation area or covered by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO).
The purpose of a planning application is to ensure that tree work is done responsibly and that the local environment is protected. The council will review your application to make sure that removing or altering the tree won't harm the landscape or biodiversity.
If you're planning to carry out tree work, we can help with this process. We can assess the trees, provide advice on what work is needed, and help you with the paperwork or liaise with the council to make sure everything is in line with local regulations. Sometimes, the council may require a tree survey or a report from an arborist, which is something we can assist with.
What it is: A TPO is an order made by a local authority to protect specific trees that are considered important for the local environment. It prevents work from being carried out on the tree without permission.
When is permission required: If your tree is covered by a TPO, you need permission from your local council before carrying out any work, including pruning, felling, or crown reductions.
How to apply: You will need to submit a Tree Work Application to the local council. The application form will require:
Decision: The council will usually make a decision within 8 weeks. If you don’t get a response within that time, the work is deemed to be approved. However, it is always recommended to check with the local authority before proceeding.
What it is: A Conservation Area is a designated area where local authorities aim to preserve the historic and natural character of the environment, which may include trees.
When is permission required: If the tree is in a Conservation Area and is over a certain size (usually 75mm in diameter at 1.5 meters above ground level), you must notify the local council before carrying out any tree work. This applies to both protected and unprotected trees.
How to apply: You need to submit a 6-week notice to the local council, which includes:
Decision: The council has 6 weeks to respond. If you don't hear back in that time, you can go ahead with the work. However, if the council objects, you cannot carry out the work unless the objection is resolved.
There are exemptions to when planning permission is not needed:
Dead, dying, or dangerous trees: If a tree is dead or dangerous, you don’t need permission, but it’s always a good idea to notify the council as a precaution.
Tree works for safety reasons: If we are required immediately to remove a hazard, permission might not be required, but it’s recommended to inform the council and keep evidence of the work.
In some cases, particularly with larger developments or significant tree work, a Tree Survey or Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) might be required. This is typically needed if the tree surgery or removal could affect surrounding trees or the broader landscape.
This document will assess the health and condition of trees, outline the proposed work, and discuss how the work might affect the environment.
If the council refuses your application, you can appeal the decision. Appeals must be made within 8 weeks of the refusal, and the process is managed by the Planning Inspectorate.
We can help by assessing whether your tree is subject to a TPO or within a Conservation Area.
We can assist with preparing the required application or notice and ensure that the work meets legal and safety standards.
We may also provide the necessary reports, like a Tree Survey or Arboricultural Report, if needed for the application.
By following the proper procedure, you ensure that any tree surgery work is legally compliant, helping to protect both the tree and the environment around it.
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