Tree Preservation Orders
Tree Preservation orders or TPOs were introduced to enable Local Planning authorities to protect important trees.
TPOs can be placed on any tree that has amenity value. Trees that are exempt from TPOs are those that are dead, dying, diseased or dangerous and fruit trees grown for the commercial production of fruit.
TPOs prohibits the cutting down, uprooting, topping, lopping, wilful damage or wilful destruction of trees without our consent.
The maximum penalty for carrying out works to TPO trees without consent is £20,000.
Our policy is only to protect trees that are under a direct threat.
For a guide to the law and best practise on Tree Preservation Orders please see Tree Preservation Orders: a guide to the law and good practice on the Communities and Local Government website.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a Tree Preservation Order put on a tree?
By submitting a written request explaining the reason for it in full.
How do I find out if a tree has a TPO?
You can check to see if a tree has a Tree Preservation Order or is in a conservation area by telephoning Planning on 0121 704 8008 or email mailto:planning@solihull.gov.uk
How do I report someone who has/intends to cause damage a tree with a TPO?
If you suspect that someone has or intends to cause damage to a tree with a TPO please complete the form below (all information received is kept confidential by Council Officers).
How do I carry out works to a TPO tree?
If the tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) and/or is in a conservation area and you want to carry out works to the tree, a planning application(attached below) must be completed and Council consent given, before any work is done; there is no charge for the planning application. The Council's Tree Officers can be contacted before an application is made via the connect centre on Tel 0121 704 8000 and will be happy to give advice over the phone. The tree officers can provide you with a list of local tree surgeons if required, or alternativly you can get a list of Arboricultural contractors and answers to tree related questions from the Arboricultural Association
For information about making a planning application, see information on this website.