If you’re planning any kind of tree work in Bedford or the surrounding area, it’s essential to know whether a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or Conservation Area restrictions apply. At Original Tree Services, our expert Bedford tree surgeons help homeowners, landlords, and businesses navigate these regulations while protecting the health and beauty of their trees.
🌳 What is a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)?
A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is a legal measure issued by the local council—such as Bedford Borough Council—to protect specific trees or woodlands from being cut down, pruned, or otherwise harmed. It’s a criminal offence to carry out unauthorised work on a TPO-protected tree.
TPOs apply to:
- Individual trees
- Groups of trees
- Entire woodlands
Whether you’re thinking of felling, lopping, or even light pruning, you’ll need to apply for permission first if the tree is protected.
🏡 Trees in Bedford Conservation Areas
If your property is located in a Conservation Area in Bedford, any tree with a trunk diameter of more than 75mm (measured 1.5m from the ground) is automatically protected—even if it doesn’t have a specific TPO.
In this case, you must submit a 6-week written notice to the council before doing any work. This gives the council time to consider whether a TPO should be made. Failing to follow this process can lead to significant fines.
📝 How to Apply for Permission to Work on Protected Trees
Whether your tree is under a TPO or located in a conservation area, here’s what to do:
1. Check Tree Protection Status
Use Bedford Borough Council’s online map service or contact them directly to confirm whether the tree is protected.
2. Submit a Tree Work Application
For TPO trees, you’ll need to submit a Tree Work Application (Form 1).
For trees in conservation areas, submit a Tree Work Notification using the same form.
You’ll need to provide:
- Details of the tree(s)
- Type of work proposed (e.g., crown reduction, felling)
- Justification for the work (e.g., safety, disease)
- Photographs or arborist reports (optional but recommended)
3. Await Permission
- TPO applications: council has up to 8 weeks to respond
- Conservation area notices: council has 6 weeks to respond
Do not start any work until written permission is received.
⚠️ What Happens If You Ignore the Rules?
Carrying out unauthorised work on a protected tree can result in:
- Fines up to £20,000 per tree
- Legal enforcement actions
- Orders to plant replacement trees
It’s simply not worth the risk—especially when help is just a phone call away.
✅ Why Choose Original Tree Services?
At Original Tree Services, we’ve been providing professional, fully insured tree care across Bedford and surrounding areas for over 10 years. Our experienced Bedford tree surgeons understand the ins and outs of TPOs and conservation regulations. We can:
- Check protection status of trees
- Prepare and submit council applications
- Carry out safe, legal, and expert tree work
- Provide full documentation for planning or insurance purposes
🌿 Get Expert Help with TPO Applications and Tree Work in Bedford
Whether you’re unsure if a tree is protected or need a trusted local contractor to carry out approved work, Original Tree Services is here to help. We take the stress out of the paperwork and ensure your trees are managed responsibly and legally.
📞 Call us today on 01234 924964
📧 Or email [email protected]
🌐 Visit: www.originaltreeservices.co.uk
