Protected Trees, TPOs & Conservation Area Advice
Protected tree and TPO advice across Sussex and Surrey. Practical guidance on what work requires permission and how to move the job forward properly.
What the job involves
Check whether the tree is covered by a Tree Preservation Order or conservation-area requirements before proposing work. The processes differ, and exceptions must be checked for the actual circumstances. Send any council correspondence or previous consent with the enquiry. Agree who will handle any application or notification and wait until the necessary requirements are met.
Prune for a reason
An old oak can contain cavities, old wounds and deadwood while still having considerable value. The question is which feature presents a problem and what it could affect. Selective work or changes to access below may retain more of the tree than a broad reduction.
Protect the ground as well as the branches
Excavation, changes in soil level and repeated vehicle movements can damage roots. If a driveway, extension or new fence is planned, assess the tree before setting the construction layout. Cutting roots to fit a design can affect the tree’s stability and health.
Consent and notice are different
A TPO normally requires consent for proposed work. A qualifying tree in a conservation area without a TPO normally requires six weeks’ notice. The applicable process and any exceptions need checking with the planning authority before work starts.
- Check whether the tree has a TPO or sits in a conservation area, before any quote is finalised
- Understand the actual problem with the tree and what the client needs to achieve
- Set out a scope of work that is proportionate and defensible if the council wants to discuss it
- Submit the TPO application or conservation area notification as required
- Carry out the agreed work once clearance is confirmed
Keep any council correspondence or previous tree-work consent available when asking for a quote. The proposed work needs to match the permission or notification that applies.
Not sure what you need? Call Brad.
Tell Brad where the tree is, what needs doing and what the access is like.