Applying for a Tree Preservation Order

There are trees that I think should be protected. What can I do?  

Contact the Planning Directorate, giving details of the trees, and the reasons why you think the trees should be protected.  

However, if the Forestry Commission has given aid under a forestry grant scheme, a tree preservation order can only be made with the Commission's permission.  

Before an order can be made for trees on Crown Land, the planning authority must seek permission from the relevant authority. Crown Land includes land belonging to government departments or land held for the Queen by a government department.  

Does an order come into effect immediately?  

Epping Forest District Council can, if it chooses, make an order which will come into effect immediately and will continue for six months, or until it is confirmed, whichever comes first.  

When the Epping Forest District Council confirms the order it can modify it, for example by excluding some of the trees.  

How will I know when Epping Forest District makes a tree preservation order? 

It will write to the owner and other interested parties, enclosing a copy of the order.  

How can I object to or express support for an order?  

If you or anyone else wants to object to or support an order, write to the local planning authority within the period they allow (usually 28 days) saying why and giving details of the relevant trees.  

The planning authority will take these comments into account when it decides whether to confirm the order.

How do I get permission to work on a protected tree?