Tree preservation orders (TPOs)

A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is an order that is given to protect:

Individual trees
Groups of trees
Woodlands

You must get consent from us before you carry out any work to a tree that is covered by a TPO.
Failure to so could result in prosecution and a fine of up to £20,000. You will also normally have to plant a replacement tree if the tree was cut down or destroyed.

Types of tree work

Tree works can include (but are not limited to):

Pruning
Lopping
Topping
Felling
Crown raising
Uprooting

Why do trees have TPOs?

TPOs are placed on trees which make a significant impact on the amenity of the local environment and their loss would be detrimental to the character of the area.

Find out if a tree has a TPO

To find out whether or not a tree is protected by a TPO or located in a conservation area see the map at the bottom of the page.

Please note: if a tree does not have a TPO It may still be protected if it is a trees in conservation areas.

Search for related documents

To view related documents attached to a TPO for a particular tree(s):

Find the tree on the map at the bottom of the page and follow the link attached.

See our tree preservation order search.

When you don't need consent

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. 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.

Notifications of dead/dangerous trees should be sent to devcon@preston.gov.uk.

Please note: you must include photographic evidence of the dead/dangerous tree(s).

Apply for consent

To apply for consent to carry out work on a tree with a TPO complete the following online form:

Planning Portal - apply to work on a tree with a TPO

Please note: once you have added your name and address select 'tree works: trees in conservation areas/subject to TPOs' to start your application.

We strongly recommend that you get advice from a tree surgeon who can provide you with a professional specification of the works needed. The Arboricultural Association has a list of approved contractors for tree works.

Fees

There are no fees for consent to carry out work on a tree with a TPO.

What to include

You will need to include the following:

Completed application form
Site plan - detailing the location of each tree you are proposing works to in relation to site features, site boundaries and adjoining properties
Detailed description of proposed works and reasons for making the application

What happens next?

Once you have submitted your application a decision will usually be made within eight weeks.
You will be informed whether your application has been approved with conditions or refused via email.

The decision will also be available online, which you can view by entering the application reference number in the planning portal search.

How to appeal if consent is refused

If your application is refused, or you object to the conditions of the consent, you can make an appeal to the Planning Inspectorate in writing within 28 days of receiving the decision.

Appeals are normally decided on the basis of written statement followed by a site visit. The Planning Inspectorate may allow or dismiss the appeal, or vary the original decision.