Landscape, Trees and Hedgerows
Important notice: Upcoming changes to our planning system
Dartmoor National Park Authority is preparing to introduce a new planning system as part of our ongoing work to improve our planning services, including those relating to applications for work to protected trees and hedgerows.
As part of this change, our current planning system will be unavailable from 5pm on Wednesday 18 November 2026 until Monday 30 November 2026, when our new system is expected to go live.
During this period, our online planning services will be unavailable to the public, meaning applications and associated documents cannot be viewed online, and comments or documents cannot be submitted through the system. Our staff will also be unable to update application records or make any final decisions on applications while we move between systems.
During the transition, there may be delays in processing applications, responding to enquiries and issuing decisions. Some consultation periods may also be extended to ensure that consultees and members of the public have sufficient time to view documents and submit their comments.
If your application is likely to be affected by the shutdown, we will contact you directly to let you know about any changes to the expected timescales.
Some disruption may continue for a short period following the introduction of the new system while services return to normal.
We apologise for any inconvenience and thank you for your patience while we make these improvements
Landscape
Dartmoor National Park is recognised as one of the UK's finest protected landscapes, valued for its beauty, tranquillity and cultural heritage.
When preparing a planning application, it is important to consider how a proposal may affect the landscape. Understanding the special qualities of Dartmoor and the features that contribute to its character can often help improve a proposal and reduce its impact.
Click here to find out more about Dartmoor's landscape, landscape character and planning guidance.
Trees
Trees make an important contribution to Dartmoor's landscape, wildlife and historic environment. Some trees are protected and may require consent before works can be carried out.
Protected Trees
Find out whether a tree is protected and how to apply for consent to carry out works.
- Tree Preservation Orders
- Trees in Conservation Areas
- Apply for Consent to Carry Out Works to Protected Trees
- Dead or Dangerous Protected Trees
Tree Advice and Guidance
Click here to find information on a range of tree-related matters, including:
- Managing and maintaining trees on your property
- Requesting a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)
- Trees affecting public highways and public rights of way
- Trees on private land
- Overhanging branches and neighbouring trees
- Trees affecting utility lines
- Commenting on planning applications that may affect trees
Hedgerows
Hedgerows are an important part of Dartmoor's historic landscape and provide valuable habitats for wildlife. Many field boundaries within the National Park are of historic and environmental importance.
Some countryside hedgerows are protected under the Hedgerows Regulations 1997 and may require approval before removal.
Find out more about: