Trees in a Conservation Area (TCA)

Trees usually make an important contribution to the character of a Conservation Area and most are afforded special protection. They are protected if their trunk diameter is 75mm (approximately 3 inches) or more when measured at 1.5m above ground level (or more than 100mm if reducing the number of trees to benefit the growth of other trees).

You have to give us six weeks’ written notice, referred to as a 211 notification, unless an exception applies, before carrying out work on trees which are located in a conservation area but are not yet the subject of a tree preservation order. This gives us an opportunity to consider whether an order should be made to protect the trees.

It is an offence to carry out work to a protected tree, or remove it, without our approval. You could be prosecuted and fined.

See Tree Preservation Orders and trees in conservation areas.

Last updated 08 December 2023