Tree Preservation Orders

Trees can make an important contribution to the character of an area and can also be of historic interest. In addition they provide important habitats for birds and other wildlife in urban areas.

We have specific powers to protect trees which are considered to have amenity value. This is done by making a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) which, in general, makes it an offence to cut down, top, lop, uproot or wilfully damage a tree.

To find out whether a tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order, or to obtain an application form for consent to carry out works to a preserved tree, contact one of our tree officers.

It is an offence to carry out work to a protected tree without our written permission. Anyone who destroys a protected tree, or damages it in a manner likely to destroy it, can be fined up to £20,000 in the magistrates' court. 

How to get a tree protected

We can consider requests for trees to be protected by a Tree Preservation Order. Send details of the location and type of trees and reasons why they should be protected to the tree officer at the address below. Photographs may also be useful.

Information about protected trees and guides to procedures for tree preservation are available from the Communities and Local Government website

Obtaining a copy of a Tree Preservation Order

Requests for copies of Tree Preservation Orders should be sent to the address below. The current charge is £6.50 per order (October 2008). Cheques should be made payable to Wolverhampton City Council.

Contact

Address:

The Tree Officer
Conservation and Urban Design Section
Wolverhampton City Council
Regeneration and Environment
Civic Centre
St Peter's Square
Wolverhampton
WV1 1RP

Telephone:     01902 555640 or 555621