Trees are an essential part of our natural and built environment, offering beauty, shade, wildlife habitat, and cleaner air. In conservation areas, trees take on even greater importance — not just for their ecological value but for their contribution to the historic and architectural character of the area.
In this blog, we’ll explore what it means when a tree is in a conservation area, what protections apply, and what you need to consider if you’re planning any work.
What Is a Conservation Area?
A conservation area is a designated zone that holds special architectural or historic interest, where local authorities aim to preserve or enhance its character. These areas often include historic town centres, picturesque villages, or areas with distinctive architectural styles.
Because trees play such a vital role in shaping the look and feel of a place, they’re given extra protection in conservation areas — even if they’re not individually covered by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO).
Are Trees Protected in Conservation Areas?
Yes — in conservation areas, all trees with a trunk diameter of more than 75mm (measured at 1.5m above ground) are protected by law. This means you must notify your local council at least six weeks before carrying out most types of tree work, including:
-
- Pruning
- Lopping
- Felling
- Uprooting
This notice is known as a Section 211 Notice (referring to Section 211 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990).
What Are Trees Protected in Conservation Areas?
Trees in conservation areas:
- Enhance visual character: They complement historic buildings and streetscapes.
- Provide continuity: Many trees are as old as the buildings themselves and add to a sense of place.
- Support biodiversity: Old trees provide important habitats for birds, bats, and insects.
- Prevent unsympathetic change: Protection ensures changes are carefully considered in context.
The goal is not to prevent all work, but to allow local planning authorities to assess whether proposed work would harm the area’s character.
How to Apply for Tree Work in a Conservation Area
If you wish to carry out work on a protected tree, you must:
- Submit a written notice to your local council at least six weeks before work starts.
- Provide details of the proposed work, including:
- Type and extent of the work
- Reasons for the work
- A sketch plan or photos if possible
3. Wait for the council’s response — they may:
- Raise no objection (you can proceed after six weeks)
- Suggest modifications
- Place a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) on the tree, giving it stronger protection
If you do not hear back after six weeks, and no TPO has been issued, you may carry out the proposed work.
What Happens If You Don’t Notify the Council?
Carrying out unauthorised work to a protected tree in a conservation area is a criminal offence and could result in:
- A fine of up to £20,000 per offence in a Magistrates’ Court
- An unlimited fine if prosecuted in Crown Court
- A requirement to replace the tree (known as a replanting notice)
Even if the tree is on private land, these rules still apply.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Some exceptions allow for immediate work without prior notice, including:
- Trees that are dead, dying or dangerous
- Work required by a statutory obligation (e.g. by a utility company)
- Work authorised by a planning permission
- Removal of dead branches (but evidence is often needed)
Always err on the side of caution — in doubtful cases, contact your local authority’s tree officer or planning department.
Conservation Areas vs. Tree Preservation Orders
It’s important to distinguish between:
- Trees in
- a conservation area: Require six weeks’ notice for most work.
- Trees under a Tree Preservation Order (TPO): Require a formal application for permission.
A tree in a conservation area may also have a TPO, in which case the TPO process applies, and six-week notice is not enough — you must submit a formal application.
Final Thoughts
Trees in conservation areas are more than just greenery — they’re part of our cultural and environmental heritage. Whether you’re a homeowner, developer, or landscape designer, understanding your responsibilities helps protect these valuable assets for future generations.
By working with your local council and following the correct procedures, you can manage your trees responsibly without compromising the character and charm of your conservation area.
Need advice on a specific tree? Contact your local council’s planning or tree officer or give us a call!
