A Guide To Trees in Conservation Areas

The courts have powers to fine anyone contravening the regulations relating to trees in a Conservation Area. The maximum fines are £20,000 for destroying a tree and up to £2,500 for anyone who does not completely destroy a tree but has carried out some other works without notifying the Council

Do I live within a Conservation Area?

For an indication as to whether your property is covered by a Conservation Area please use the following PDF Document. You can search for your property using the find tool or (Cntrl F). Please be aware that this is an indication only - for further information please contact the Planning Help Desk by telephone on 01252 774419 or email: trees@hart.gov.uk

• Hart District Council Conservation Areas PDF - Updated on the 29th July 2011

Are trees in conservation areas protected?

Yes. If a tree in a conservation area is 7.5cm in diameter measured 1.5 metres above ground level (or 10cm if the work is to promote growth of other trees in a woodland)and it is not covered by a TPO, then it is protected.

If a tree located within a conservation area is already the subject of a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) then this tree is automatically covered by the TPO legislation.

What if I want to carry out works to a tree within a Conservation Area?

If no TPO exists, then before carrying out any works to the tree, six weeks notice must be made in writing to the Planning Authority describing the trees and works to be carried out.

You can apply by downloading the forms from the Application Forms Page.

Is the Council responsible for trees within Conservation Areas?

No, the owner remains responsible for the trees, their condition and damage they may cause. The Conservation Area status provides the Council with a period to assess the trees suitability to be included within a Tree Preservation Order.

What happens once I have given the Council six weeks written notice?

A Tree Officer will visit the site and will make a decision to either place the tree under a Tree Preservation Order, raise no objection to the proposed works or allow the six weeks to expire in which case the works can be carried out.