Tree Preservation orders or TPOs were introduced to enable Local Planning authorities to protect important trees.
To find out information on trees within Conservation Areas, please click here.
How do I know if a tree is covered by a TPO?
To find out if trees within your property is covered by a TPO, please telephone (01785) 619344 and we will be able to advise you.
TPOs can be placed on any tree that has amenity value. Trees that are exempt from TPOs are those that are dead, dying, diseased or dangerous and fruit trees grown for the commercial production of fruit.
TPOs prohibits the cutting down, uprooting, topping, lopping, wilful damage or wilful destruction of trees without the Local Authorities consent.
The maximum penalty for carrying out works to TPO trees without consent is £20,000.
The Council's policy is only to protect trees that are under a direct threat.
What if I want to carry out work to a tree that is covered by a TPO?
You must notify the Council of your intention to carry out works that would affect trees covered by TPOs, by completing an application form. These are available from the Planning and Engineering Services Reception in the Civic Centre, by telephoning (01785) 619344, by e-mail to trees@staffordbc.gov.uk or by downloading the form. Help text is also available here.
For a guide to the law and best practise on Tree Preservation Orders please see the Urban Policy on the Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG) website by clicking here.
