Tree Preservation Orders explained
A TPO protects individual trees, groups of trees or woodland. Cutting down, topping, lopping, uprooting or damaging a protected tree without the council's consent is a criminal offence and can lead to substantial fines. Consent is applied for through the local council; councils generally have up to eight weeks to decide.
Conservation areas
In a conservation area, most trees with a trunk diameter over 75mm (measured at 1.5m above the ground) are protected even without a TPO. You must give the council six weeks' written notice before work, during which the council can decide to make a TPO.
Which council?
In North Somerset — including Nailsea, Backwell, Clevedon, Portishead, Long Ashton, Yatton and Weston-super-Mare — applications and notices go to North Somerset Council. On the Bristol side of the boundary they go to Bristol City Council. If you're not sure which applies, we'll find out.
How we help
- We check whether your tree is protected by a TPO or stands in a conservation area
- We prepare and submit the application or notice with the supporting information
- We schedule the work once consent is granted, or the notice period has passed
- We carry out the work to BS3998 standards and keep the paperwork on record
Dead or dangerous trees
There are exemptions for dead or dangerous trees, but you should still give the council written notice first (usually at least five working days) unless there's immediate danger. We'll advise on the right route. This page is general guidance, not legal advice — your council has the final say.
What's included
- A free, no-obligation check of your trees' protected status
- Applications and notices prepared and submitted on your behalf
- Clear advice on timescales and what the council is likely to ask for
- Tree work carried out to BS3998 once consent is in place
Where we work
Based near Nailsea, we provide tpo & planning advice across Nailsea , Backwell , Clevedon , Portishead , Long Ashton , Yatton , Weston-super-Mare and the Bristol fringe .
Last updated 22 October 2026.