If you destroy or damage a tree you could be fined up to £20,000 if convicted in the magistrates’ court. For other offences you could be fined up to £2,500. If the tree was cut down or destroyed you will normally have to plant a replacement tree.
What type of trees can be covered by an order?
All trees regardless of species can be protected by a tree preservation order. The order can cover anything from a single tree to woodlands. Hedgerows trees can be protected, but NOT hedges, bushes or shrubs.
What is a tree preservation order?
A tree preservation order is made by the local planning authority which makes it an offence to cut down, reduce, crown thin, uproot, willfully damage or willfully destroy a tree without permission from the planning authority. Tree preservation orders are used to protect trees that contribute to the appearance (amenity value) of an area. They are made if a tree is under threat of being cut down or damaged.
What is the purpose of a tree preservation order?
A tree preservation order protects trees that make an impact on their local surroundings. This is important when trees are in immediate danger.
How much access do you need?
For certain operations, such as stump-grinding a minimum of 36 inches is required for us to get our machine in, generally a normal sized alleyway will do.
How do I know if my tree is protected?
about…trees will inquire for you with the local council upon accepting the quote.
How much noise will you make and for how long?
Tree surgery is an inherently noisy trade, with chainsaws and wood-chippers operating in normally quiet residential areas. There will be some disruption but we will try to keep it to a minimum and for the shortest time possible.
Will you make the worksite safe?
Yes we will endeavour to keep the safety of the site our priority, if needs be we will tape off areas of the site and signs will be erected telling the public of the dangers. We can arrange for prior warning to be given to relevant parties, neighbours etc.
On a busy road – how will the traffic be organised? And is the council notified?
The relevant Highways regulations will be adhered to and if your council needs to know that traffic flow may be disrupted we will tell them and arrange appropriate traffic control.
How will a diseased tree affect the trees within the area?
It depends on what disease the effected tree has, some diseases spread by root to root contact, others through the air. Generally speaking healthy trees are well prepared to cope with attacks from diseases.