Conservation Areas & TPO Advice
Knowing what councils will and won't allow, before you apply.
Trees in conservation areas, and trees with a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), are protected. You need to either notify or formally apply to the council before any work.
We've been doing this in Surrey and West Sussex for 45 years. We know what Waverley, Mole Valley, Reigate & Banstead, Horsham, Crawley and Mid Sussex councils will and won't sign off — and how to frame an application that's likely to get approved.
Conservation areas
If your tree is in a conservation area, you need to give the council 6 weeks' notice of intended work. They can either approve, refuse, or impose a TPO during that window. We handle the notice on your behalf.
Tree Preservation Orders
If a tree has a TPO, you need formal consent before any work, including pruning. Applications go to the local council. We prepare the application, justify the work, and follow up.
What we don't do
We're not a tree consultancy. We don't write BS5837 surveys, arboricultural impact assessments, or planning-stage tree reports. If you need one of those — usually for a planning application or build — we can refer you to a consultant we trust.
Common questions
How do I know if my tree has a TPO?
The council will tell you — usually free, sometimes within 24 hours. We can check on your behalf as part of a site visit.
How long does a TPO application take?
8 weeks from a complete application. Sometimes faster, rarely slower. We'll tell you upfront whether your job is likely to get approved before you wait.
What if my application gets refused?
You can appeal, but it's slow. Better to frame the application properly first time. That's where 45 years of doing this locally pays off.
Ready for a quote?
Free site visit. Written quote within 48 hours. No pressure, no pushy follow-ups.
Or email info@cliverichardstreesurgery.com