If you have a tree on your property that’s become too large, damaged or unsafe, you may be wondering whether you can simply arrange for it to be removed. The answer isn’t always straightforward. While many trees can be removed without permission, others are protected by law, and carrying out work without the correct consent could result in significant fines.
At About Trees, we’re often asked whether permission is needed before tree removal in Ashford. This guide explains when permission may be required, how to check if a tree is protected and what to do before arranging any tree work.
Are All Trees Protected?
No. Most trees growing on private land can be maintained or removed without seeking permission. However, there are two main situations where legal protection may apply.
The first is when a tree is covered by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO). A Tree Preservation Order is made by the local authority to protect trees that provide significant public amenity, landscape value or environmental importance. If a tree is protected by a TPO, you will normally need written permission before carrying out pruning, crown reduction or complete removal.
The second is if your property lies within one of Ashford’s Conservation Areas. Even if a tree isn’t covered by a Tree Preservation Order, you may still be required to give the council six weeks’ notice before carrying out work on certain trees within a Conservation Area.
How Can You Check If Permission Is Needed?
Before arranging tree work, it’s always worth checking whether your tree is protected.
Ashford Borough Council provides information about Tree Preservation Orders and Conservation Areas, and you can contact the council if you’re unsure about your property’s status.
If you’re arranging professional tree surgery, an experienced contractor should also be able to advise you before any work begins. At About Trees, we always help customers understand whether permission may be required before carrying out tree removal or pruning.
What Happens If You Remove A Protected Tree?
Removing or carrying out unauthorised work to a protected tree can have serious consequences.
Local authorities have the power to prosecute anyone who damages or removes a protected tree without permission. In some cases, you may also be required to plant a replacement tree, even after the original has been removed.
This is why it’s always better to establish whether permission is needed before any work takes place.
Are There Any Exceptions?
There are circumstances where work may be carried out without prior permission, even if a tree is protected.
For example, work may sometimes be permitted if a tree is dead or presents an immediate danger to people or property. However, the burden of proving this usually rests with the person carrying out the work, and evidence such as photographs or an independent assessment may be required.
Because every situation is different, professional advice should always be sought before proceeding.
Choosing The Right Tree Surgeon In Ashford
Whether permission is required or not, tree work should always be carried out safely and in accordance with current arboricultural standards.
As experienced tree surgeons serving Ashford and the surrounding villages, About Trees provides professional tree removal, pruning, crown reductions, hedge cutting and stump grinding for domestic and commercial customers. We can also advise on protected trees and help you understand the correct process before any work begins.
If you’re unsure whether your tree can be removed, we’re always happy to offer honest advice before work is scheduled.
Contact About Trees
If you’re looking for a trusted Tree Surgeon in Ashford, About Trees provides professional tree surgery services throughout Ashford and the surrounding area.
Whether you need advice about Tree Preservation Orders, help with tree removal or general tree maintenance, our experienced team is here to help.
Learn more about our Tree Surgeon services in Ashford or contact us today for friendly, professional advice.
About Trees Ltd is a professional tree surgeon based in Kent, providing reliable commercial tree services across the county. From safety inspections for schools to large scale site work for developers and housing associations, we support organisations with safe, efficient and fully insured tree surgery. Whether you’re in Canterbury, Maidstone, Ashford or beyond, our qualified team is here to help.
