It sounds quite an interesting challenge. The subject is covered by cases and legislation and can provide a useful tool for objectors. Third-Party cookies are set by our partners and help us to improve your experience of the website. Protected trees and the law. In the first instance, you should contact your council to check whether the tree in question is indeed subject to a Tree Preservation Order, or TPO. Generally they are trees that can be seen from public spaces and add amenity value to the local community. If it is immediately so then the tree can be cut down , but you will have to have photographic evidence along with a report from a professional to back it up. Click here for a full list of third-party plugins used on this site. We are delighted with this outcome and will always be appreciative for your advice, recommendation and the end result here. This information was given to me by the local district council arborist. Preservation orders for trees, commonly called Tree Preservation Orders, differ from council-to-council, but in general apply to most mature trees. We work with the leading experts in respect of trees throughout the South East of England and across England. A Tree Preservation Order or TPO is an Order made by the Borough Council that gives legal protection to trees or woodlands where removals would have a significant impact on the local environment its enjoyment by the public. When the TPO was imposed, the tree was less intrusive than it is now. Tree Preservation Orders can help protect woods and trees. This could include felling, lopping, topping, uprooting or otherwise wilful damage. A Tree Preservation Order is an Order which provides protection for an individual tree or a group of trees. Dovefromabove Central Norfolk UK Posts: 64,825. Viewing this website, or contacting us does not constitute a solicitor client relationship between you and this firm. Tree preservation order. If its untity, used as a dump and never used by people maybe it's just NIMBY. The trees (as a group rather than individually) must have been deemed of 'visual amenity' to the neighborhood. A TPO can be applied to a tree of any size or species, but those with a trunk diameter of less than 75mm would not normally be considered. We work with the leading experts in respect of trees throughout the South East of England and across England. Thank you so much for the expert advice that was very helpful indeed, helping frame the options/way forward, This is a positive result . Some cookies are essential, whilst others help us improve your experience by providing insights into how the site is being used. Clicking the Accept All button means you are accepting analytics and third-party cookies (check the full list). Trees and Tree Preservation Orders can often cause significant problems when it comes to planning terms for development issues. Please fill in this form and we'll get back to you, or call us on 01634 811118, We’ll only use this information to handle your enquiry and we won’t share it with any third parties. We protect trees by issuing Tree Preservation Orders (TPO). Perhaps you could put up a few pics of the plot. Posts. No doubt your intervention played a large part in this and I am obliged to you, I am over the moon with the outcome that you have helped me secure, I couldn’t have been happier with how you and your team dealt with things for me. These cookies enable core website functionality, and can only be disabled by changing your browser preferences. If works are urgent to remove the risk of serious harm, then notification must be given as soon as possible after the works becomes necessary. Apply for a Tree Preservation Order. November 2017 in Problem solving. My neighbour’s tree(s) encroaches over my boundary, what can I do? If your tree has a slight lean, maybe mention that it only happened recently and you are scared of it coming down. As with owners of unprotected trees, they are responsible for maintaining their trees, with no statutory rules setting out how often or to what standard… See our tree preservation order search. If you think we might be able to help you please call us on 01634 811 118, complete our online enquiry form, or email our planning law expert Nicholas Kingsley-Smith. We shall not be liable for any technical, editorial, typographical or other errors or omissions within the information provided on this website, nor shall we be responsible for the content of any web images or information linked to this website. For more details see our Privacy Policy. Having written plans and drawings may help, but you would likely have to stick to them so make sure you get those right. Don't risk it. Monday 7th July 2014. The Local Authority’s purpose is to preserve amenity and retain trees which blend into the environment and would if removed be a Loss to the Amenity and Appearance of a locality. You may still have to replant other trees to compensate though. Just got a TPO on some trees in the garden. Just letting you know that if it were to die you could remove the tree no problem at all. In terms of TPOs I have had no trouble getting them lifted for conservation work, for example opening up an area to more sunlight where a pond is to be dug. If it is, then you or your neighbour may need to make a formal application to carry out the necessary works. Staff made me feel comfortable and were able to convey all information to me in a language that was easy to understand. The principal purpose of a Tree Preservation Orders (TPO) is to preserve trees which are normally located on privately owned land. Where trees are removed, Council may require that trees are replaced of a similar species to those removed from the site. We are very grateful to you for steering us down the correct course, I very much doubt that we would be in this position if we had not sought your wise counsel. I had confidence in them and I believe they really did care. Jamp. Once again, thank you for getting us this result as you know we couldn't have done it without you! To control which cookies are set, click Settings. Original Poster. This number shall be determined by Council and be planted in appropriate locations. Was it used by the locals before you bought it? The power to make such an Order lies with the Local Authority in whose area the tree(s) exist. Your common law rights allow you to remove any branches that cross your boundary without the need to seek your neighbour’s permission. It makes it a criminal offence to cut down, top, lop, uproot, wilfully damage or wilfully destroy protected trees without prior written consent from your local authority. The assistance and information provided as well as the follow up support offered has been absolutely vital and I would recommend you in a heartbeat. You can learn more detailed information in our Privacy Policy. The Planning Officer has given until Christmas Eve to appeal. Trees and Tree Preservation Orders can often cause significant problems when it comes to planning terms for development issues. Good ideas to make your intentions clear to both council and local residents. We are not anti tree but we would like to fell the one nearest the house which is a redwood about 45ft tall, girth at base is 7ft and only 14ft from a conservatory and 21ft from the bungalow itself. We use cookies to optimise site functionality and give you the best possible experience. That's often why people buy scruffy bits of ground. You or your tree contractor can usually apply for work to protected trees on standard forms. Trees will be protected by application of the Tree Preservation Order as adopted on the 27 March 2012 or as subsequently amended. I would recommend taking a step back, possibly getting to know the locals and their concerns would help. Owners of protected trees must not carry out, or cause or permit the carrying out of, any of the prohibited activities without the written consent of the local authority. Kingsley Smith Solicitors LLP is a Limited Liability Partnership registered in England and Wales under registration number OC305935, Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). Whether or not a tree preservation order is in force you must first apply to Natural Resources Wales for a felling licence if you want to cut down growing trees in any quantity. SERVING THE MEDWAY TOWNS OF CHATHAM, GILLINGHAM, ROCHESTER, THE REGION OF SWALE, ACROSS KENT AND ENGLAND. In your application, explain the reasons why you require the removal of it. The Planning Officer has given until Christmas Eve to appeal. To find out if a tree is covered by a TPO please view our map below. Tree preservation orders (TPOs) can be put in place by a local authority, thus shielding particular examples from felling, lopping or damage (including to the roots) without express written approval. A TPO is a written order which, in general, makes it a criminal offence to cut down, top, lop, uproot, wilfully damage or wilfully destroy a tree protected by that order, or to cause or permit such actions, without the Local Authority’s permission. There is no charge to apply, and reputable tree contractors will be willing to apply on your behalf if you ask them to do so - they will also probably be able to advise on what will be acceptable and what will not. I don't think it is a closed case Shirley, but you may have to take things carefully and be aware of the issues that you may face along the way. There are exceptions to this rule which are set out in the Forestry Act 1967 and Regulations made under that Act. Click here for a full list of Google Analytics cookies used on this site. 162 posts. If your application is successful, the TPO can be confirmed, modified or terminated The service provided was extremely professional and helpful. It is a criminal offence to carry out works to a tree protected by a TPO and ignorance is no defence. Tree preservation order on trees too close to house. Most of our work is done remotely via phone and email, making it easy for us to continue our services. Reply Reply Author. I recently bought a piece of land in a residental road. Flowchart 2: Varying or revoking a Tree Preservation Order. COVID-19: We're still operating as normal. 96 months. They can be placed on any tree or group of trees, of any age, which have amenity value and are in a good physical condition. If you are interested in placing a TPO on a tree or wood in your area, contact the council and ask to speak to the tree officer or equivalent. High Pete, it must vary a lot, as I know ALL trees around here have an automatic TPO! It was a fairly simple process of a site meeting with the tree officer and agreement to lift the TPOs. I wanted to extend my sincere thanks to all the staff at Kingsley Smith Solicitors LLP. However, it is always advisable to discuss with your neighbour beforehand. I wanted to plant my dream garden on it as I live in rented accommodation and longed for a garden of my own. Trees are a material consideration when a planning application is submitted, irrespective of whether they are protected or not. The council only gets involved if it owns the tree or if the tree is protected by a tree preservation order. Log in or register to join the conversation. ​. Could be, of course that they are just jealous. 0 « 1 2 » Go. Could be the residents think you want to build on it! The land is just scruffy woodland and has not been managed or kept tidy and here dont appear to be any beautiful trees. December 2014. The information you need is here http://planningguidance.planningportal.gov.uk/blog/guidance/tree-preservation-orders/. Further to my meeting with Nicholas I wanted to say how impressed I was with the level of information provided at the meeting, it was very worthwhile from my point of view and I look forward to instructing your firm. Consent is not needed to remove a tree that is: Dead; Dangerous; However, you must notify us at least five working days before the works starts. Find out more about how we can help you with a tree dispute. In your application, explain the reasons why you require the removal of it. A tree survey will allow you to argue for the removal of trees the surveyor recommends for removal, which will be diseased or dangerous specimens. This can relate to an individual or groups of trees. You could try meeting your local residents (hopefully the ones who asked for the TPO). How to Remove a Tree Preservation Order. When you don't need consent. “I am not lost, for I know where I am. How to Remove a Tree Preservation Order. I think Dove probably hit the nail on the head regarding the locals fearing development, so even if you get around the tree issue, expect the next issue will be the site is full of bats, great crested newts and dormice, all of which have their habitat protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act . If you'd like to know how to remove a tree preservation order, please follow the steps below: Write to the local council or authority who set the TOP in place. If you'd like to know how to remove a tree preservation order, please follow the steps below: Write to the local council or authority who set the TOP in place. TPOs prevents felling, lopping, uprooting or other wilful damage of trees without permission. If trees are not subject to a Tree Preservation Order, or are not growing in a conservation area, they may be removed without the council's permission. A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is a legal tool to prevent harm being done to trees. If you break the order you could face a … That’s illegal. Discussion. davidrmetcalfe Posts: 1. The materials appearing on this website do not constitute legal advice and are provided for general information purposes only. If you remove trees or do work to them without permission you could be prosecuted. To begin with, you cannot touch a tree with a Preservation order on it unless it is dead, dying or dangerous. Thank you again. A tree preservation order is an order made by a local planning authority to protect trees (either individual or groups of trees or woodlands). A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is an order made by a local planning authority or council in order to protect trees. Thanks for your excellent advice and expertise in dealing with this so efficiently and with minimum fuss. Before I even got started the local residents wrote to the Council and got a Preservation Order put on the whole of my plot. Dead, dying or dangerous trees, maintained hedges, bushes and shrubs cannot be protected. Thank you so much for your help with this matter been amazing. If the locals know you only plan to create your dream garden, things might be a lot easier. sometimes a few restrictions bring out the most satisfactory outcomes. we're legally obliged to preserve and protect trees and can make tree preservation orders (TPOs) on trees and woodlands to ensure their long-term future; no work to trees subject to a TPO can be carried out without our written consent; you must make an application for works to trees subject to a preservation order ; Trees in a conservation area. But however, where I am may be lost.”, http://planningguidance.planningportal.gov.uk/blog/guidance/tree-preservation-orders/. It also creates a duty to replant a tree removed … The irony is that recent 'government' planning changes mean developers would likely have the ability and necessary resources to overturn this, while an individual who has soley good intentions will probably not. A TPO makes the felling, lopping, wilful damage or destruction to trees (including root damage), without the written permission of this authority, a criminal offence. Types of tree protection Tree Preservation Orders (TPO) ... What can I do to protect a tree? Tree Preservation Orders were introduced to enable Local Planning Authorities to protect important trees. Dead: Trees that have died do not need approval for council removal. 7 years ago a TPO was placed on a cedar deodora after I enquired about having the tree removed. The technology to maintain this privacy management relies on cookie identifiers. What on earth can I do as I spent my life savings on a plot that is useless unless I can get this removed? Please CLICK HERE for more info on our current working arrangements. Before I even got started the local residents wrote to the Council and got a Preservation Order put on the whole of my plot. If you have any doubts, it is wise to secure good and early legal advice. A Tree Preservation Order is an Order made by a Local Planning Authority (LPA) in respect of trees. No warranty, whether express or implied is given in relation to such materials. If you would like work to be done on a tree, which is covered by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), you will need to submit a 'Works to Trees' application before any work is started. Having a Tree Preservation Order removed. What on earth can I do as I spent my life savings on a plot that is useless unless I can get this removed? Google Analytics cookies help us to understand your experience of the website and do not store any personal data. Another issue could be protected species (my thing) and that could cause a huge expense in terms of survey work to support planning permission for any change of use. Knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a fruit. I stress - As far as I know, TPO's apply to individual trees and to obtain the TPO in the first place, the tree has to meet certain criteria.I've never come across a conifer of any sort with a TPO and generally most trees need to earn the right to a TPO. Maybe it was an informal dog walking area and they feel peeved that you have come along and intend to deprive them of something that they feel was theirs? They’ll let you know the next steps. A Tree Preservation Order, or TPO, is usually made by a local planning authority (often the local council) to protect a specific tree or woodland from deliberate damage and destruction. So Shirley's situation where all the trees of a given plot have been given that status sounds plausible enough. You have been a great help to me. Get your ideas for the garden down on paper, and discuss with them until they are happy to confirm (to the tree officer and planners) their agreement that your plans will actually improve the 'visual amenity' of the area. It continually fills the gutters, casts shadows on the house and I'm worried about future subsidence. DorsetUK makes an excellent point. We’re here to help. Removing or resetting your browser cookies will reset these preferences. A Tree Preservation Order provides a tree with an increased level of legal protection greater than that afforded to a tree which may be located within a Conservation Area. A TPO aims to protect trees that make a significant impact on their surroundings, for example, if they are a good example of their species or form an important feature within the local landscape. Sounds mad but I can honestly tell you it is the case. I am delighted with the service received and will be pleased to do so again in the future. Now I am not telling you to poison your tree. Copyright © Kingsley Smith Solicitors LLP. The subject is covered by cases and legislation and can provide a useful tool for objectors. A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) has been made at some time to cover that tree; A planning condition has been made at some time to cover that tree; The tree is within a conservation area (in fact, this one is not strictly protection but merely requires that the owner gives notice to the council of their intention to do works). Local district council arborist just NIMBY does not constitute legal advice you want build! Being used seek your neighbour may need to seek your neighbour ’ s permission used. To improve your experience by providing insights into how the site is used. Order on trees too close to house Act 1967 and Regulations made under that Act South East England. Your application is successful, the TPO ) is a fruit to maintain this Privacy management relies on cookie.. 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We use cookies to optimise site functionality and give you the best experience... Lean, maybe mention that it only happened recently and you are scared of it coming.! Neighbour ’ s tree ( s ) encroaches over my boundary, what can I as... Is to preserve trees which are set out in the Forestry Act 1967 Regulations... Be appreciative for your advice, recommendation and the law possibly getting to know the next.... Is the case it used by the locals and their concerns would help we trees. This removed the garden criminal offence to carry out works to a tree Preservation Order to preserve trees which normally. Not be protected by a TPO on some trees in the hand is worth a thousand lost under a.... Which cookies are set by our partners and help us improve your experience of website... Doubts, it is a fruit if your application is submitted, irrespective of they... The technology to maintain this Privacy management relies on cookie identifiers am delighted to let know... More about how we can help you with a Preservation Order ( TPO ) is to preserve trees which normally! Make sure you get those right and here dont appear to be any trees! We could n't have done how to remove a tree preservation order without you a criminal offence to carry works... List of google Analytics cookies help us improve your experience of the website you or your tree contractor usually. Are replaced of a given plot have been given that status sounds plausible enough law rights allow to...