A Homeowner’s Guide to Tree Preservation Order (TPO) Rules in the UK
If you own a property in the UK, you may have heard of something called a Tree Preservation Order—or TPO. These protections restrict what you can do to certain trees, and breaking the rules can lead to hefty fines.
This guide breaks down everything UK homeowners need to know so you can stay compliant—and know when to call in a professional tree surgeon like Gus Bishop Tree Services for expert help.
What Is a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)?
A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is a legal protection placed by your local council to safeguard specific trees, groups of trees, or entire woodlands.
A TPO makes it illegal to cut, prune, damage, uproot, or destroy a protected tree without written permission from the council.
Why Do Councils Create TPOs?
Councils protect trees that are:
Significant for local wildlife
Important to local character or history
Visually valuable to the community
At risk of being removed or damaged
If your tree is covered by a TPO, it’s usually because it adds beauty, heritage, or ecological value to your area.
How to Check if Your Tree Has a TPO
Before carrying out any tree work, you must check the TPO status. Here’s how:
1. Contact Your Local Council
Most councils have online TPO maps or interactive planning tools.
2. Search the Planning Portal
Your address may show active TPO restrictions.
3. Ask a Qualified Tree Surgeon
Gus Bishop Tree Services can check this for you and advise on next steps.
What You Can and Can’t Do to a TPO Tree
Permitted Work (With Council Consent)
To work on a protected tree, you must apply for TPO consent. The council will approve work that is:
Necessary for tree health
Required for safety reasons
Approved for light improvement (case-by-case)
Recommended by a qualified arborist
Needed to prevent property damage
You may apply to:
• Prune
• Reduce the crown
• Remove dead branches
• Fell the tree (only under strict conditions)
Work That Is Strictly Prohibited
Without permission, you cannot:
Cut down a protected tree
Crown reduce or crown lift
Prune or thin branches
Dig or carry out construction near the roots
Damage bark or disturb the soil
Kill or poison the tree
Breaking these rules can lead to fines up to £20,000 or unlimited penalties in Magistrates’ Court.
Common Reasons Homeowners Apply for TPO Permission
Safety Concerns
Dead, diseased, or dangerous branches must be made safe.
Structural Damage
Tree roots damaging foundations, drains, or driveways.
Excessive Shading
Loss of natural light (only approved in some cases).
Storm Damage Assessment
Wind-damaged branches may pose immediate risk.
A professional tree survey from Gus Bishop Tree Services can strengthen your application.
How to Apply for TPO Consent
Applying for permission is FREE and normally takes up to 8 weeks.
The application requires:
Location of the tree
Proposed work (e.g., crown reduction, felling)
A detailed arboricultural report
Photographs of the tree
Justification for the work
A tree surgeon significantly increases your chance of approval by providing accurate, regulation-friendly documentation.
Exemptions: When You Don’t Need Permission
You may not need consent if:
The tree is dead
The tree presents an immediate danger
Branches are dead, dying, or hazardous
Work is necessary for public safety
You are fulfilling statutory obligations (e.g., highway clearance)
⚠️ Councils require photographic proof.
⚠️ You must notify them within 5 days after carrying out emergency work.
Always get professional advice, mistakes can still lead to legal action!
Why You Should Use a Professional Tree Surgeon for TPO Work
Working with TPO-protected trees is complex, technical, and risky. Using a specialist like Gus Bishop Tree Services ensures:
Legal compliance with UK planning regulations
Correct pruning techniques
Accurate risk assessments and reports
Safe working at height
Protection of nearby structures and gardens
Increased chance of council approval
A DIY approach can lead to costly mistakes and even prosecution.
Need Help with a TPO-Protected Tree? Contact Gus Bishop Tree Services
If you’re unsure whether a tree is protected or what work you're legally allowed to do our experienced, fully insured tree surgeons can help.
We offer:
TPO assessments
Council application support
Tree health surveys
Emergency storm damage services
Get in touch with us for expert advice before you risk a fine or damage your property!