How do I know if my tree is protected? A quick guide to TPO's and conservation areas

When planning tree work, it’s essential to check whether the tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or located in a Conservation Area, as both have specific legal requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the differences and what you need to do.

At the bottom of the post you will find links highlighted in blue to you relevant local authority.

Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)

A TPO is a legal order protecting specific trees or woodlands. To carry out work on a tree with a TPO, you must apply for consent from the local planning authority.

Work That Requires Consent:

✅ Cutting down the tree

✅ Pruning that affects health or appearance

✅ Uprooting the tree

✅ Any action that may damage or destroy the tree

Work That Does Not Require Consent:

✅ Removing dead wood

✅ Work necessary to prevent immediate danger (evidence may be required)

🚨 Failure to obtain consent before carrying out work on a TPO tree can lead to legal penalties.

Trees in Conservation Areas

A Conservation Area protects the overall historic or architectural character of an area, including its trees.

If a tree is within a Conservation Area and has a trunk diameter greater than 75mm (measured at 1.5m above ground level), you must give the local authority six weeks’ notice before carrying out any work. This allows them time to decide whether a TPO should be placed on the tree.

Work That Requires Notice (6 Weeks’ Notification):

✅ Cutting down the tree

✅ Pruning - All types light or heavy

✅ Uprooting the tree

Work That Does Not Require Notice:

✅ Trees with a trunk diameter less than 75mm

✅ Removing dead wood

✅ Routine maintenance that does not harm the tree’s health or structure

✅ Work required for safety in emergency situations (notify the local authority afterward)

🚨 If you do not receive a response within six weeks, you can proceed with the proposed work, but if a TPO is placed on the tree, you must then apply for consent.

Key Takeaways

• TPO Trees: Require an application for most works, except minor maintenance or dead wood removal.

• Conservation Area Trees: Require six weeks' notice for work unless the tree is below the size limit or the work is minimal.

• Always Check First! Contact your local planning authority before carrying out tree work to avoid legal issues.

For professional tree work advice or assistance with applications, feel free to get in touch! 🌳✨

Below are links for local authorities within Hampshire County, each with links to their respective Tree Preservation Order (TPO) information or interactive maps:

1. Hampshire County Council:

• TPO Information: Hampshire County Council - Trees

2. District and Borough Councils:

• Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council:

  • TPO Information: Protected Trees

• East Hampshire District Council:

  • TPO Information and Map: Tree Preservation Order (TPO)

• Eastleigh Borough Council:

  • Interactive Map for TPOs: Tree Enquiries and Online Map

• Fareham Borough Council:

  • Interactive Map for TPOs: Map of Protected Trees

• Gosport Borough Council:

  • TPO Information: Tree Preservation Orders

• Hart District Council:

  • TPO Information: Tree Preservation Orders

• Havant Borough Council:

  • TPO Information: Tree Preservation Orders

• New Forest District Council:

  • TPO Information and Map: Tree Preservation Orders

• Rushmoor Borough Council:

  • TPO Information: Tree Preservation Orders

• Test Valley Borough Council:

  • TPO Information: Tree Preservation Orders

• Winchester City Council:

  • Interactive Map for TPOs: View Protected Trees on a Map

3. Unitary Authorities:

• Southampton City Council:

  • Interactive Map for TPOs: Tree Preservation Order (TPO) Map

• Portsmouth City Council:

  • TPO Information: Tree Preservation Orders

4. National Park Authorities:

• New Forest National Park Authority:

  • TPO Information: Tree Preservation Orders

• South Downs National Park Authority:

  • TPO Information: Trees and Woodlands

Key Points:

• Interactive Maps: Several councils provide interactive maps to check TPOs, including East Hampshire, Eastleigh, Fareham, Winchester, and Southampton.

• Contact Local Authorities: For precise and up-to-date information, it's advisable to contact the respective local authority directly.

For more detailed information, please visit the provided links or consult the specific local authority's website.