Protected Trees

Trees can have protected status in varying ways the most common of which is a Tree Preservation Order. Redditch Borough Council holds responsibility for the administration of 37 New Town ‘blanket’ type Orders and 130 Borough of Redditch Orders. Generally written permission is required from the Council prior to any work being carried out.

Frequently asked questions:

How do I know if a tree is protected by law?

Contact the Development Control department who will advise you accordingly.

What if I need to carry out work to a protected tree?

Development Control will send you an application form and can also provide you with a copy of the DLTR Guide if you request it.

What if I do not agree with the Councils decision.

The benefit of submitting a formal application is that if you are in dis-agreement with the decision there is a Right Of Appeal to the Secretary of State who will appoint an independent arboriculturalist to inspect the tree and provide an impartial judgement.

What if I don’t obtain permission?

You can be prosecuted and fined up to £20,000.

Will I have to pay for any work myself?

Yes - if the tree is on land in your ownership.

Can I apply for work to a tree that I do not own?

Yes - but no work can be carried out on the tree without the owners consent.