Tree Work Applications in Devon

Tree Preservation and Planning Assistance

Expert Guidance for Tree Work Applications

TPO & Conservation Area Tree Applications

At DTG Trees & Grounds, we understand that carrying out work to a protected tree can sometimes feel complicated. Trees may be protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or by their location within a conservation area, and different requirements can apply depending on the tree and the work being proposed.

Based in Dawlish, our experienced team helps homeowners, businesses and landowners across Devon understand what is required before tree work begins. We can assess the tree and proposed work, check the relevant protection where possible, prepare the supporting information and assist with submitting the appropriate application or notification to the local authority.

What is a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)?

A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is made by a local planning authority to protect individual trees, groups of trees or woodlands that have particular amenity value. If a tree is protected by a TPO, consent will normally be required before carrying out work such as pruning, felling or uprooting. This means it is important to check the tree's status and obtain the appropriate consent before work begins.

What are Conservation Areas?

Trees within conservation areas are also subject to additional controls. In most cases, if a tree has a stem diameter greater than 75mm when measured 1.5 metres above ground level, the local planning authority must be given six weeks' notice before proposed works are carried out. This gives the authority time to consider the work and decide whether the tree should be protected by a TPO. Some exemptions apply, so the individual circumstances should always be checked before work begins.

Get Help With a Tree Application

How We Help With Tree Work Applications

Navigating the application process for TPO and conservation area tree work can be daunting. At DTG Trees & Grounds, we provide a comprehensive and hassle-free service, handling all aspects of the application on your behalf. Our services include:

Initial Assessment

Assess the tree, its location, condition and the work being proposed.
Check whether the tree is subject to a TPO or located within a conservation area.
Recommend the most appropriate tree work and identify what supporting information may be required.

Preparing the Application

Prepare the information required for the relevant TPO application or conservation area notification.
Provide appropriate photographs, plans, work specifications and supporting justification.
Include arboricultural information or reports where these are required to support the proposed work

Liaising with the Local Council

Submit the application or notification to the relevant local authority where this forms part of the agreed service.
Respond to requests for clarification or additional information.
Liaise with the relevant tree or planning officers regarding the proposed work where necessary.

Managing Public Consultation & Objections

If necessary, we assist in addressing any public objections that may arise.
Provide expert advice to support the validity of your application.

Carrying Out the Approved Work

Once permission is granted, our fully qualified arborists will safely carry out the pruning, pollarding or tree removal work in line with any conditions attached to the decision.
Ensure all work is completed to the highest industry standards, with minimal disruption to your property and the environment.

Common Reasons for Protected Tree Work

Safety Concerns – A tree has structural defects, significant decline or other concerns that need professional assessment.
Overgrown or Encroaching Trees – anches or growth are affecting buildings, access or the surrounding space.
Tree Management – Pruning, crown reduction or other work is needed as part of appropriate ongoing management.
Storm Damage or Decline– A protected tree has suffered damage or deterioration and remedial work may be required.
Tree Removal– Felling is being proposed where retention is no longer considered appropriate.

Tree Application & TPO FAQs

How do I know if my tree has a TPO?

How Long Does the Application Process Take?

For work to a tree protected by a TPO, the local planning authority will normally have up to eight weeks to determine an application. For qualifying trees within a conservation area that are not already covered by a TPO, six weeks' notice is normally required before work can proceed.

Timescales can vary depending on the application and local authority, so we will explain what to expect when the work is being planned.

Can I apply for tree work permission myself?

What happens if my application is refused?

Can I trim a TPO tree without permission?

What Happens if You Carry Out Work Without Permission?

Carrying out unauthorised work to a protected tree can be a criminal offence and may result in prosecution, significant fines and requirements relating to replacement planting. The consequences depend on the circumstances and the type of protection involved.

If you are unsure whether a tree is protected, it is much better to check before work begins. DTG can help establish what permission or notification may be required and make sure the proposed work is properly documented.

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