Tree Preservation Orders in North Dorset

Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) and conservation areas

The council is responsible for making TPOs in North Dorset and has a statutory responsibility to protect trees on development sites.

TPOs may be made in respect of individual trees, groups of trees or whole woodlands in the interest of preserving public amenity. Where trees are protected, it is a criminal offence to damage them or to carry out work to them without prior consent from the council.

If you are planning to carry out work to any tree(s) within a conservation area you must give us 6 weeks notice. To find out if your property lies within a conservation area, contact the Environment Team.

Make an application to carry out work to a tree

Apply and make payment online if you want permission to carry out work to trees within a conservation area or that has a TPO.

To find out whether your tree is covered by a TPO or for information on how to apply to carry out works to trees within conservation areas that are not covered by a TPO, contact the Environment Team.

Trees and development guidelines

Visit the trees and development guidelines page.

Tree warden scheme

The tree warden scheme aims to pull together enthusiasts with different backgrounds to form and effective network of people concerned about trees. Tree wardens are people appointed by their community group, residents association, parish council, or community council to gather information and to encourage practical projects relating to trees in the community.

Why are tree wardens needed?

Over the years there has been a great reduction in woods and hedgerows due to disease, neglect, urban sprawl and storms. This has made everyone realise that action is needed now if future generations are to enjoy and benefit from trees in our towns, cities and countryside.

Tree wardens help to:

• gather information
• liaise with the community
• work on practical projects
• protect trees

For more information contact the environment team.