Protected trees

Protected trees

What are the different forms of tree protection?

Many of the trees in Spelthorne are protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). In addition, trees in Conservation Areas and some trees on development sites or recently developed sites are also protected.

These web pages will help you to find out whether a tree is protected and, if so, what you need to do if you think work is required.

What does it mean if a tree is protected?

If a tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order, is within a Conservation Area or is subject to a planning condition you will need the written permission of the Council before it is felled or branched removed.

How can I find out if a tree is protected?

Tree Preservation Orders - you can check if a tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order by referring to the property address on Planning Constraints.
You can check whether your property is within a Conservation Area by following the following link: Conservation Areas in Spelthorne
Planning conditions - these may require trees in new development sites to be maintained for a period up to seven years. Please check with a member of our Development Control Team to find out if your tree is subject to a planning condition. Call 01784 446348 or email the Planning Department

Further information?

For further information on trees in conservation areas or Tree Preservation Orders please contact Development Control on 01784 446348 or e-mail: planningdm@spelthorne.gov.uk and provide the following information:

Your name
Your address
Contact telephone number/e-mail address
Address of land on which the tree stands
Number of trees, species if known and location on the site

Warning!

When trees are cut down or subject to tree surgery without permission owners can be prosecuted. Anyone found guilty of this offence is liable, if convicted in the Magistrates’ Court, of a fine of up to £20,000.