Is permission required to cut down a tree?

Cutting down a tree in your garden might seem simple but in many cases permission is needed before you start work. The rules depend on where the tree is and whether it’s protected and if you go ahead without checking first, you could face fines, legal action or be required to plant a replacement tree.

Tree Preservation Orders

Some trees are protected by something called a Tree Preservation Order. This is put in place by the local council to protect trees that are important to the area. If a tree has a TPO, you normally need written permission from the local planning authority before cutting it down or carrying out work like pruning or lopping. Doing work without consent is a criminal offence.

There are a few exceptions, such as removing dead branches or dealing with an immediate safety risk, so advice should be taken first, especially for people involved in grounds maintenance Gloucester, such as the example seen here https://jemaintenance.co.uk/services/grounds-maintenance-near-me/.

How to get permission

To carry out work on a protected tree, you’ll need to apply to your local council and explain why the work is needed. There’s a standard form for this on the UK government website. Even if you didn’t know a tree was protected, you can still be fined.

Conservation areas and felling licences

Trees in conservation areas also have protection and you usually must give the council six weeks’ notice before starting work. In some cases, a felling licence from the Forestry Commission is needed too, although small garden trees are often exempt.