Do I Need Permission to Cut Down a Tree?
Your Essential Guide
If you’re thinking about cutting down a tree on your property, then it’s important to know one thing for sure: do you need permission? The answer is different for everyone, and that’s why it’s important to work with a trusted tree surgeon. Here at Kent Tree Brothers, we provide tree cutting services to a wide range of customers. Here’s everything you need to know!
Do I Need Permission?
As a general rule of thumb, if you own your home and the land it stands on, you do not need permission to cut down a tree in your garden. However, this doesn’t apply to everyone. Even if it is on your own property, you will need to seek permission to cut a tree down if it:
- Is covered by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)
- Your property is located in a conservation area.
In the vast majority of cases, you’re therefore free to cut down a tree on your property! Much of the work we carry out is cases like these, and we will quickly be able to remove the tree and the stump if required, recycling all waste and leaving your garden tidy and manageable.
What Is a Tree Preservation Order?
A TPO is an order that is put in place by your local council to protect a specific tree or group of trees. A TPO will prevent you from felling or even carrying out pruning on the tree before obtaining consent from the council first. TPOs are usually put in place to protect trees that have significant value – this could be thanks to their age or appearance, or the role they play in the local environment.
If you’re unsure whether your tree is covered by a TPO and have reason to believe that it might be, then we recommend getting in touch with your local council to double-check. Breaching the terms of a TPO is a criminal offence, and you don’t want to accidentally break the law.
What Are Conservation Areas?
A conservation area is an area that holds a special architectural or historic interest. The aim of a conservation area is to protect the character and appearance of all that sits within it, and this includes any trees! If you live in a conservation area and wish to cut down or carry out substantial works to a tree, you need to get in touch with your local council with at least 6 weeks to spare. This then gives them time to decide whether a TPO should be put in place to protect it. This process is known as giving a Section 211 Notice.
We Are Here to Help
Navigating all of these rules and regulations can be confusing, and that’s why we are here to help. We have years of experience when it comes to working on trees covered by TPOs or located in conservation areas, and can talk you through all of your options while making sure that you’re complying with the law. All of our tree surgeons are fully qualified, and you can be sure the work they carry out is of the highest quality.
What Now?
If you’re unsure whether you need permission to cut down a tree, you should always double-check first. Most trees can be felled with zero need for consent, but you don’t want to get caught out! Whatever your situation, you can count on expert support from us.
