In order to protect trees in the interest of amenity, particularly when they are considered to be at risk, the Council can make a Tree Preservation Order (TPO).  An Order can specify a single tree, groups of trees or woodlands but not hedges or shrubs.  Trees do not have to be exceptional or unusual individual specimens to merit inclusion in a TPO, but are assessed on their contribution to amenity and the local landscape.

 

The effect of a TPO is to make it an offence to damage or destroy, fell, top, lop or uproot the tree(s) unless consent is given by the Council.

 

There are legal powers the Council may use to prosecute offenders.  A person who intends to carry out work to a protected tree must submit an application in writing for consent under the TPO.

 

Tree Preservation Orders and a Register of all applications for Tree Works are available for inspection in the Council Offices.  TPOs are also registered as a Local Land Charge.

 

Anyone proposing to carry out works to trees within a Conservation Area is required to give the Local Planning Authority 6 weeks prior notification before any works are carried out.

 

Applicants are encouraged to seek the advice of an arboriculturalist or discuss the proposal informally with the Council's own Tree Officer before making an application.

 

In 1997 new Regulations came into force giving powers to Councils to control the removal of 'Important Hedgerows'.  The Regulations require owners to notify the Council of an intent to remove a hedgerow.

 

On receipt of a notification, the hedgerow will be evaluated to determine whether it is 'important' under defined criteria given within the Regulations.  A Hedgerow Retention order or written consent to remove the hedgerow will be made on the basis of the evaluation.

 

Even if not included in a TPO hedges and trees may be subject to planning control as they may be covered by conditions on a planning permission.

 

It is always best to check with the Senior Arboricultural Officer Steve Dores on (01902) 696422 or landscapeplanning@sstaffs.gov.uk