Enquire about a tree

Have a question about a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), want to check if your tree is protected, or discuss a tree in Dorset? Whether it’s in a park or public space or on a pavement or verge, complete our online enquiry form to get started.

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What is a TPO

A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is a mechanism of legal protection placed upon a tree, or group of trees in the interests of amenity. A TPO makes it an offence to cut down, top, lop, uproot, wilfully damage or wilfully destroy a tree subject to a TPO without prior consent. Consent may include conditions that must be followed.

Placing a TPO (How we assess)

We may make a TPO where a tree has significant amenity value, considering:

  • tree condition and lifespan
  • public visibility
  • special factors (historic, habitat, veteran, or group value)
  • need for protection (risk of harm or removal)

How you will be told if a TPO is made

How you will be told:

  • the landowner, occupier and interested parties receive a copy of the Order
  • if the owner can’t be identified, we may place a site notice near the tree(s)
  • if you requested the TPO, you’ll be notified only once the Order is made

Tree owner responsibilities

Responsibilities:

  • do not carry out or permit prohibited works on protected trees without written consent
  • owners remain responsible for tree maintenance and safety
  • regular inspections and professional advice are recommended

Laws and guidance

Laws and guidance:

Apply for tree work (TPO consent or Conservation area notice)

Apply online via the Planning Portal website.

Your application must:

  • use the standard form, available on the Planning Portal website
  • identify the tree(s) clearly on a plan
  • specify the proposed work and reasons
  • include supporting evidence (for example, arboricultural report, photos, or structural evidence where relevant)
  • read the TPO Guidance before making an application

Fees: No fee applies for TPO applications or conservation area notices.

Timescale:  A valid TPO application can take up to 8 weeks for a decision.

You can search and view existing or past applications and tree work notifications on our planning register. Anyone carrying out work even under an exception must ensure they do not contravene wildlife protection laws. If in doubt, seek advice from the Council or Natural England.

TPO appeals

If your application to work on a protected tree is refused, if you disagree with a condition attached to consent, or if you haven’t received a decision within eight weeks, you can appeal.  

You cannot appeal if you wish to object to a tree preservation order.

Dead or dangerous trees: 5 Day notice (Regulation 14)

If you are felling a dead or dangerous protected tree or removing dangerous limbs to make it safe, you must give us at least 5 working days’ written notice before you start.

If works are urgent (immediate risk):

  • you may act first to make safe but take photos before and after the work
  • if requested, you must provide evidence that the tree was immediately dangerous, or enforcement action may follow

Notify us of your felling online.

Include in your notice:

  • location of the tree (confirm front or rear garden)
  • species and number of trees
  • TPO reference (if known)
  • defect details (for example, broken or hanging branches, dead tree)
  • photos: close‑ups of the defect and an overall view of the tree

For the full list of exceptions, see the regulations:

Criminal Offences and Penalties

It is a criminal offence to cut down, top, lop, uproot, damage, or destroy any TPO protected tree or any tree over 75 mm diameter in a conservation area. 

Neighbour disputes: Dorset Council cannot intervene.

Find a professional: The Arboricultural Association lists accredited tree surgeons and consultants: Visit the Arboricultural Association website or call them on 01242 522152.

Contact your local team

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