Trees in conservation areas

Conservation areas are designated areas considered to be of special architectural or historic interest.

The designation of a conservation area introduces special controls, including the requirement of a planning application to demolish any building or part of a building or to carry out works on protected trees.

There are 25 designated conservation areas in the Epping Forest district

Apply to carry out works on a protected tree

All trees in a conservation area, with a stem diameter of 75mm or more, are protected by the Town & Country Planning Act 1990. The law requires that:

  • Anyone proposing to cut down or carry out any work on any tree in a conservation area must give us 6 weeks notice of their intentions
  • Work may only be undertaken if we do not object or the 6 weeks has expired
Download the application for tree works form on the Planning Portal

You can find guidance on GOV.UK – Tree Preservation Orders and trees in conservation areas.

Dead or dangerous trees

Dead or dangerous trees are exempt from requiring an application but you should liaise with the planning tree team prior to any such work.

Contact information

For more information or advice on trees in a conservation area please contact

More information