How to Apply for TPO Works Consent

You generally need consent before carrying out almost any significant work on a tree protected by a TPO — felling, topping, lopping, pollarding, pruning, uprooting, or anything that could damage it. If the tree is in a conservation area instead, the route is usually to give written notice rather than apply for consent.

If you are not sure whether a tree is protected, check available public data by postcode first, then confirm with the council before assuming you need — or do not need — to apply.

Applications to a Local Planning Authority for tree works consent typically ask for:

• Your contact details and the address of the tree.
• Which tree or trees are involved, identified clearly.
• A description of the proposed works.
• The reasons for the work.
• Supporting material such as photographs, a plan or a sketch.

Many councils take these applications through the national planning application service or their own online portal. Ask the council which route it prefers.

The works description is the heart of the application. Be specific and use clear terms: for a crown reduction, say how much; for limb removal, say which limbs; for felling, say so plainly and explain why. Vague descriptions slow things down because the tree officer cannot assess what you actually intend.

Where you can, use recognised arboricultural terms — a qualified tree surgeon can help phrase the works in a way the council will understand.

Good supporting material helps the council make a decision without a site visit or follow-up questions:

• Photographs showing the tree, the issue and its setting.
• A simple plan or sketch marking which tree is which.
• A clear reason — for example, deadwood, damage, disease, or a structural concern backed by a professional opinion.

If your reason is safety or damage, evidence such as an arborist's or engineer's report makes a much stronger case.

Councils aim to decide tree works applications within a set period — often around eight weeks — though it can vary with workload and the complexity of the case. The council may grant consent, grant it with conditions, or refuse, and there is usually a right to appeal a refusal.

Apply in good time, and do not start work until you have the decision in writing. Beginning protected work before consent is granted can be an offence.

Forms, portals, timescales and local practice differ between authorities, and the information here is general guidance only. Before you apply, contact the relevant Local Planning Authority — usually the district, borough, city or unitary council — to confirm exactly what it needs and how it wants to receive it.

Getting this right first time avoids delays and makes sure your work stays on the right side of the rules.