Tree works and preservation orders

Protected trees are trees in conservation areas or covered by a Tree Preservation Order. 

How to find out if a tree is protected

To find out if a tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order, email the details to: planning@rutland.gov.uk 

Tree works

It's against the law to carry out work on protected trees without consent from your Local Planning Authority. There's no maximum limit on fines that can be imposed if you carry out works without consent and in extreme cases custodial sentences may also be issued.

Anyone proposing to carry out works to a tree in a conservation area must give 6 weeks written notice to the Local Planning Authority. This notice period gives us the opportunity to assess the proposed works and decide if it is necessary to impose a tree preservation order (TPO) on the tree.

Any conservation area tree that has a trunk diameter of more than 75 millimetres when measured over the bark of the tree at 1.5 metres from ground level will require written notice.

Anyone proposing to carry out works to a tree that is subject to a TPO will need to apply for permission and a decision will normally be made within 8 weeks from receipt of a valid application.  

Please give notice for tree works in a conservation area or apply for works to trees subject to a TPO via the link shown below - the application process is simple and free.  

Trees that are dead or considered dangerous can potentially be dealt with by giving 5 days written notice instead. Please email planning@rutland.gov.uk with the subject line '5 day tree notice' and provide the tree address, details and photos where possible.

Some tree removal projects may require a felling licence from the Forestry Commission.