TPO Applications & Appeals
Clear, evidence-based support for Tree Preservation Order applications, variations, objections and appeals — structured for planning acceptance.
TPOs protect trees with recognised amenity value. When works are needed for safety, damage prevention or development, evidence must be strong. Focused arboricultural assessment makes applications clearer, more proportionate and more likely to succeed.
POs raise questions — evidence provides direction
Whether you’re facing refusal, unclear restrictions or a request for additional justification, a structured TPO assessment explains what’s reasonable, what’s proportionate and how planners will interpret the proposal. A focused AIA shows how your layout interacts with every relevant tree and sets out reasonable, proportionate solutions.
What is a TPO Application or Appeal?
A TPO Application or Appeal provides the evidence required to:
- justify tree works (pruning, removal or management)
- demonstrate safety or structural concerns
- support development proposals
- object to a new or existing TPO
- challenge a refusal decision
This includes:
- detailed tree condition assessment
- structural, safety or damage analysis
- planning context and amenity evaluation
- proportionate work recommendations
- evidence aligned with LPA decision criteria
The aim is simple:
clear, defensible justification that meets the standards LPAs require.
The TPO Application & Appeal Process
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Initial Review | Send decision notices, photos and the site address. |
| 2. On-Site Assessment | Condition, risk, amenity and structural context evaluated. |
| 3. Justification Drafting | Clear reasoning supporting works, variation or appeal. |
| 4. Submission or Appeal | Guidance on required documentation and next steps. |
| 5. Outcome Support | Additional evidence supplied if requested by the LPA. |
Our Approach
Evidence First
Every recommendation justified with clear arboricultural reasoning.
Proportionate
Work recommendations matched to real, not perceived, risk.
Planning Led
Reports structured around LPA decision-making frameworks.
Strategic
Approach tailored to raise acceptance likelihood and avoid unnecessary escalation.
Do I need a TPO application or appeal?
You’re likely to need one if:
- a tree you want to prune or remove is protected
- the LPA has refused previous works
- storm damage has created new safety concerns
- the tree is causing structural, surface or drainage damage
- an objection has been raised to proposed development
- you’ve received notice of a new or provisional TPO
- a neighbour’s tree affects your property and is under TPO control
If a tree is protected, any works require formal, well-justified approval.
What your TPO Application or Appeal includes
A focused, planning-ready package:
- full tree condition and safety assessment
- structural and physiological evaluation
- identification of defects, decay or stability issues
- proximity and constraint analysis
- justification for pruning or removal
- supporting evidence for objections or appeals
- amenity assessment aligned with LPA criteria
- recommended alternatives (if applicable)
- clear, proportionate reasoning
Why this Matters for Planning
LPAs assess TPO decisions under the Town & Country Planning Act 1990, the Tree Regulations 2012 and established amenity and risk criteria.
They expect clear evidence demonstrating:
- condition and structural stability
- safety and foreseeable hazards
- proportionality of proposed works
- impact on public amenity
- interaction with built structures
- reasonable alternatives
Weak or ambiguous applications often lead to:
- refusals
- delayed decisions
- repeat submissions
- appeals requiring stronger justification
A clear, technical justification improves acceptance and reduces friction.
Your Next Step
Need help with a TPO Application or Appeal?
Send your decision notice or photos and we’ll confirm the level of evidence required
Phone: 0800 494 7479
Email: [email protected]
Case Note
Detailed assessment identified a significant stem cavity and a history of branch drop. Risk evaluation supported targeted reduction rather than full removal. Revised works were approved, and the extension progressed without further arboricultural objections.
TPO FAQs
Can I remove a TPO tree if it’s dangerous?
Yes, but evidence must clearly demonstrate imminent risk. Some emergency works may be exempt.
Can a refusal be appealed?
Yes. Appeals must include strong technical justification.
Why do councils refuse TPO applications?
Usually due to insufficient evidence or disproportionate proposed works.
Can pruning be approved instead of removal?
Often. Retention with proportionate reduction is frequently supported.
Can a new TPO be objected to?
Yes. Objections must address amenity, condition and proportionality.
Does structural damage justify removal?
Only where evidence is clear and alternatives are not viable.
How long does a TPO decision take?
Typically 8 weeks, depending on LPA workload.
Will this delay my planning application?
It can, if tree works affect design. Early clarity avoids delays.
Do dead trees under TPO need permission?
Dead trees are exempt, but evidence and notice to the LPA are required.
What information helps before the visit?
Photos, decision letters and any recent survey data.
