Tree management
Certain trees and some groups of trees are
protected by law. Those that have Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)
or those that fall within a conservation area are protected by
legislation that makes it an offence to carry out work on those
trees without permission.
The council is responsible for the efficient
management and maintenance of trees within the area. Trees
that grow in council owned property or on public open spaces are
also protected as they are considered to be council property.
Anyone who wilfully damages these can be prosecuted.
The council has its own professional tree
officers who regularly inspect trees to ensure that they are safe,
in good condition and to pinpoint any work requirements.
Specialist tree contractors are employed to
carry out all appropriate tree maintenance to trees owned by the
council.
If you are intending to undertake works to a
private tree you are advised to:
- Contact the council to ensure that the trees are not protected
by a TPO, planning constraints or by location within a conservation
area
- Always employ a suitably trained professional tree surgeon, who
is covered by public liability insurance, proof must be
provided
- Never employ house callers or leaflet droppers claiming to be
professional tree surgeons
- Check professional identification and qualification proof.
Reputable tree surgeons will always be able to provide this
- Reputable tree surgeons can be found in the Yellow Pages or
contact us for further advice
Download the
application for tree works (pdf 473kb) – works to trees
subject to a TPO or notification of proposed works to trees in
conservation areas.
Download the
application for tree works guidance notes (pdf 100kb)
For further information contact:
Planning
Mulberry Place (AH)
5 Clove Crescent
Mulberry Place
London, E14 1BY
Tel: 020 7364 5009 - Mon to Fri - 9am to
5pm
Email: planning@towerhamlets.gov.uk
Visit the Planning Portal website to
learn about planning and building regulations, apply for planning
permission, find out about a development near you and appeal
against a decision and research government policy.