Tree Preservation Orders

A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is an order made by the local planning authority which makes it an offence to cut down, top, lop, uproot, wilfully damage or wilfully destroy a tree without the planning authority's permission.

The purpose of a TPO is to protect specific trees, groups of trees or woodlands which make a significant contribution to the amenity of their surroundings. 

If you would like to know whether a tree is protected by a TPO, please see our Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) and Conservation Areas map (opens new window). Alternatively, email localplan@great-yarmouth.gov.uk.

If you think a tree should be protected by a TPO, please Request a Tree Preservation Order.

If you are concerned that someone is felling a protected tree without consent, please report it to the Council using our Planning enforcement complaint form.

Applications for works to protected trees

If you wish to carry out works to a protected tree you need to apply for permission first. It is advisable to take advice from a tree specialist before you submit an application for works to a protected tree.

Please note, it is an offence to work on protected trees without permission and can result in a fine of £20,000.

There are some limited circumstances where written permission from the Council may not be necessary before undertaking works. These include:

• Making a tree safe if it is an imminent threat to people or property
• Removing dead wood or a dead tree

If the owner is in any doubt on these matters they should check with the Council.

If you consider the work to be exempt you are still required to give five days' notice to the local planning authority; the forms should not be used but rather notice should be given by emailing localplan@great-yarmouth.gov.uk. You should supply photographic evidence to support your view that the work is exempt.

All applications for works to protected trees (from 2021) can be found on the Council's planning application search facility. For historic applications, details can be provided on request by emailing plan@great-yarmouth.gov.uk.

Further information about Tree Preservation Orders

Further information can be found in the GOV.UK: Tree Preservation Orders and trees in conservation areas (opens new window) guidance.