What is a tree preservation order?

Only a tiny minority of trees in England are protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPO). These are made and managed by local authorities. Some of them are protected because they are within a conservation area. Unauthorised work to trees of this nature could lead to prosecution, so it is in your best interest to do your research before undertaking any tree work. 
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Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) are administered by Local Planning Authorities (LPA) and are made to protect trees that bring significant benefit to the local area. This protection is particularly important where trees are under threat. 

All types of tree can be protected, and a TPO can protect anything from a single tree to all trees within a defined area or woodland. Any species can be protected, but no species is automatically protected by a Tree Preservation Order.

When a tree has a TPO it becomes a criminal offence to cut down, top, lop, uproot, wilfully damage or wilfully destroy the tree(s). Serious cases will be dealt with by the Crown Court where an unlimited fine can be imposed.

Many local authorities now have online maps to help you investigate if a tree is protected by a TPO or is in a conservation area. Try looking at Chelmsford City Councils website for more information. 

You might also find it helpful to seek the advice of a tree surgeon prior to making an application. If you would like to contact Chelmsford Tree Surgeon, call us on 01245 527 053.

Contact us for the following tree services:
​Emergency Tree Services |  Tree Pruning |  Tree Removal | Stump Removal | ​Stump Grinding | ​Crown Lifting | 
Crown Thinning | Hedge Trimming