England · National documents
Tree Preservation Orders and trees in conservation areas
Explains protected trees, Tree Preservation Orders, conservation-area procedures and applications for tree works.
AI-generated summaries of the linked official sources; not editorially reviewed. Sources and limits
Where this document applies
England: relevance depends on the proposal, site and planning process.
Tree Preservation Orders and trees in conservation areas (official source, opens in a new tab) · What is a Tree Preservation Order?; What are a tree owner’s responsibilities? (paragraphs 001–002)
Protection concerns specified works to the tree
A Tree Preservation Order protects identified trees, groups or woodland and controls specified activities, including cutting down, lopping and damage, subject to the applicable exceptions and consent provisions. The owner remains responsible for the tree; protection does not transfer maintenance to the council.
Read the official source (official source, opens in a new tab) · What is a Tree Preservation Order?; What are a tree owner’s responsibilities? (paragraphs 001–002)
Limits and checks
- This national source does not establish the local policies, designations or site facts that apply to an individual proposal.
- Some guidance predates the August 2026 Framework and may refer to earlier policy numbering. Read it with the current Framework and any applicable transition provisions.
Read alongside this document
Put the national source in your local context
Start with the exact refusal reason. Note the policy and paragraph it cites, then check your authority’s policy summary and the facts discussed in relevant appeal decisions. Each appeal turns on its own facts and does not predict another outcome.