Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) in North Devon – What You Need to Know

May 1, 2026

If you’re planning any tree work in Barnstaple, South Molton, or anywhere across North Devon, it’s important to understand Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). These legal protections can affect what work you can carry out on a tree — and failing to follow the rules can result in serious penalties.

At North Devon Tree Surgery, we regularly help customers navigate TPO regulations, ensuring all tree work is carried out safely, legally, and correctly.

What Is a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)?

A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is a legal protection placed on a tree (or group of trees) by the local council. Its purpose is to preserve trees that provide significant public amenity or environmental value.

If a tree has a TPO, you cannot:

Cut it down
Prune, top, or lop it
Damage or destroy it

…without first gaining permission from your local authority. See the government website for details: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tree-preservation-orders-and-trees-in-conservation-areas

Do You Need Permission for Tree Work?

If your tree is protected by a TPO or located within a conservation area in North Devon, you must apply for permission before carrying out any work.

This applies to common services such as:

Tree pruning and crown reduction
Tree removal or dismantling
Deadwood removal
Crown lifting or thinning

Even small amounts of work may require approval.

What Happens If You Ignore a Tree Preservation Order?

Carrying out unauthorised tree work on a protected tree is a serious offence. You could face:

Large fines
Legal action
Requirements to replace the tree

For that reason, it’s always best to check before starting any tree work.

How to Check If a Tree has a Tree Preservation Order?

If you’re unsure whether a tree is covered by a TPO in Barnstaple or North Devon, there are a few simple steps:

Contact your local council
Check online planning or mapping systems
Speak to a professional tree surgeon

At North Devon Tree Surgery, we can help you quickly determine whether your tree is protected and guide you through the process.

Applying for Tree Work Permission

Applying for permission doesn’t have to be complicated. We can assist with:

Identifying the correct application type
Providing clear descriptions of proposed work
Ensuring all work meets local authority standards

In many cases, approval can be granted quickly when the work is justified and carried out professionally.

Professional Tree Work You Can Trust

Working on protected trees requires experience, care, and full compliance with regulations. Our team ensures that:

All work follows current industry standards
Trees are managed responsibly and safely
Applications and permissions are handled correctly

We aim to make the process simple and stress-free for our customers.

Tree Work in Barnstaple, South Molton & Across North Devon

As a local company, we understand the regulations and conditions specific to North Devon. Whether you’re in Barnstaple, South Molton, or the surrounding areas, we can provide expert advice and carry out compliant tree work.