Tree Preservation Orders

Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) protect trees and woodlands that make an important contribution to the character and appearance of Dartmoor National Park.

If a tree is protected by a TPO, you will usually need permission from the National Park Authority before carrying out work to it.

What does a TPO protect?

A TPO can protect:

• Individual trees
• Groups of trees
• Areas of trees
• Woodlands

TPOs cannot be used to protect shrubs, bushes or hedgerows, although trees growing within a hedgerow may be protected.

Protected trees must not be:

• Cut down
• Uprooted
• Topped or lopped
• Wilfully damaged
• Wilfully destroyed

without the Authority's consent unless an exemption applies.

Is my tree protected?

You can check whether a tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order or located within a Conservation Area using our interactive map.

Before carrying out any work, we recommend checking the protected status of your trees.

Applying for Tree Works

If a tree is protected, you may need to submit an application before carrying out works.

Apply for Consent to Carry Out Works to Protected Trees

Trees in Conservation Areas

Trees within Conservation Areas are also protected. In most cases you must give the Authority notice before carrying out works to these trees.

Find out more about trees in Conservation Areas.

Request a New Tree Preservation Order

If you believe a tree or woodland of public amenity value is under threat, you can ask us to consider making a Tree Preservation Order.

Please provide:

• The location of the tree
• A plan showing its location
• Details of the perceived threat
• Your contact details

Email this information to trees@dartmoor.gov.uk.

Further Information

The legal framework for Tree Preservation Orders is set out in the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and the Town and Country Planning (Tree Preservation) (England) Regulations 2012.