Email: hawkinsarborist@gmail.com 24/H Call Outs! Phone Number: 075271 88398 | 01935 873 328

Do I Need Permission to Cut Down a Tree? | Hawkins Tree & Fencing Services

Not sure whether you need permission to cut down a tree? Hawkins Tree & Fencing Services explains Tree Preservation Orders, conservation areas and when to contact a professional tree surgeon.

Hawkins Tree & Fencing Services

10/12/20262 min read

Do I Need Permission to Cut Down a Tree?

If you have a tree on your property that is overgrown, damaged, blocking light or causing concern, you may be wondering whether you can simply have it cut down. One of the most common questions homeowners ask is: “Do I need permission to cut down a tree?” The answer depends on several factors, including whether the tree is protected, where your property is located and what type of work needs to be carried out.

At Hawkins Tree & Fencing Services, we provide professional tree surgery across Sherborne, Yeovil, Dorchester and the surrounding areas. Before carrying out major tree work, it is always important to check whether any legal restrictions apply.

What Is a Tree Preservation Order?

A Tree Preservation Order, often known as a TPO, is a legal protection placed on certain trees by the local authority. It is designed to protect trees that provide visual, environmental or historical value to an area.

If a tree has a TPO, you usually cannot cut it down, prune it, top it, lop it or damage it without written permission from the council. Carrying out unauthorised work on a protected tree can lead to serious penalties, so it is always worth checking before starting any work.

A professional tree surgeon can help you understand what steps may be needed before work begins.

What If the Tree Is in a Conservation Area?

Even if a tree does not have a Tree Preservation Order, it may still be protected if it is located within a conservation area. In many cases, you must give the local authority notice before carrying out work on trees in these areas.

This applies to many types of tree surgery, including pruning, crown reductions and tree removal. The aim is to give the council time to decide whether the tree should be protected before work goes ahead.

If you are unsure whether your property is in a conservation area, it is always best to check with the local council or speak to an experienced tree surgeon.

When Might Tree Work Be Allowed?

Tree work may be permitted if the tree is dead, dangerous, diseased or causing a genuine safety concern. However, even in these cases, it is important to follow the correct process and gather evidence where needed.

Examples of situations where tree work may be required include:

A dead tree close to a property or access route
A tree causing structural damage
Large branches overhanging buildings or roads
A tree showing signs of serious disease or decay
A tree interfering with safe access

A qualified tree surgeon can assess the condition of the tree and advise on the safest and most appropriate course of action.

Why You Should Use a Professional Tree Surgeon

Tree removal and major pruning can be dangerous without the correct experience, equipment and insurance. A professional tree surgeon will carry out the work safely, protect nearby property and ensure the site is left tidy afterwards.

At Hawkins Tree & Fencing Services, we provide advice and practical support for tree surgery projects across Sherborne, Yeovil and Dorchester. Whether you need a tree assessed, reduced or removed, our team can help you understand the options available.

Contact Hawkins Tree & Fencing Services

If you are unsure whether you need permission to cut down or prune a tree, contact Hawkins Tree & Fencing Services today. We can assess the tree, advise on the best approach and provide a free, no-obligation quotation for professional tree surgery across Sherborne, Yeovil, Dorchester and the surrounding areas.