Protected Trees
We can protect important trees with a Tree Preservation Order (TPO). Trees in conservation areas receive the same protection. It is a criminal offence to work on, damage or destroy any tree protected in this way without first getting our consent.
Please email us to:
- find out whether a tree is protected;
- request that we issue a TPO for a tree; or
- find out whether we have granted permission for tree works.
Work on protected trees
You must get permission from the Council before doing any work to a protected tree. We recommend that you use a trained tree surgeon to carry out the work.
Please apply for permission by completing a tree works application form using the guidance note to assist you with completing the form correctly.
You can send your completed application form to trees@sstaffs.gov.uk or post it to:
Development Management
South Staffordshire Council
Council Offices
Wolverhampton Road
Codsall
South Staffordshire
WV8 1PX
Alternatively you can submit your application online using the Planning Portal Website.
Once an application is received and validated, we will inspect the tree and give you our decision within 8 weeks of receiving your application.
Please note, due to a high volume of applications being received, some applications are taking slightly longer then 8 weeks for a decision. We apologise for any delays.
New TPOs
If there is a particular tree or group of trees that contribute positively to your area, you can apply to have them protected by a TPO. Please email or write to us.
First, we will inspect the tree and check that it is healthy. Then, if we decide to make a TPO, we will write to everyone with a direct interest in the tree. Usually, that will be the owners and occupiers of the land on which the tree stands, and those of any adjacent land, especially if the tree overhangs a boundary.
The people we have written to have 28 days to tell us whether they support or object to the TPO. We will consider everyone's comments before we make a final decision.