Tree protection

Any species of tree can be protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO). This can include:

• an individual tree
• groups of trees
• areas of trees
• woodlands

We may identify trees for protection:

• if they are under threat from planning applications
• following contact from local residents
• for strategic landscape reasons

Before deciding whether to make a TPO, we consider both the level of threat and the importance of the tree or trees.

To find out if trees are protected by planning conditions, you can look at the planning history of an address.

• Search for a planning application (opens in new tab)

When we make a TPO, it becomes effective immediately. We notify the landowners and occupiers, who can object to or support the order.

We will consider all the comments we receive and within six months will confirm, withdraw or amend the TPO.

If you wish to work on a protected tree, please make an application.

Sometimes where development has taken place, trees are protected by planning conditions.

To find out if trees are protected by planning conditions, please look at the planning history of an address using our search function below.

• Search for a planning application (opens in new tab)

Trees are the responsibility of the owner of the land on which they grow. We do not have the powers to ensure that people carry out regular tree maintenance. To find out who owns a piece of land you should contact the Land Registry.

We advise tree owners to have trees inspected at regular intervals, and also after major storms, by a competent person.

If you own a tree that is dangerous, contact a competent tree specialist to give you advice as soon as possible.

If a dead or dangerous tree is protected and it’s condition has been confirmed by a person competent to make that decision, then you do not need to make a full application for making it safe.

• Guidance on managing trees (opens in new tab)
• Registered tree consultants and tree surgeons (opens in new tab)

Neighbours' trees

• Landowners have a responsibility to ensure that their trees do not present an unreasonable risk to neighbours, but they do not have an obligation to cut back overhanging branches. There is a common law right for a neighbour to cut back branches as far as the boundary, subject to getting any relevant permission if the tree is protected.
• By law you should offer to return the prunings to the tree owner. We also advise you to let the owner of the tree know before you begin any work as they may wish to make alternative arrangements with you.
• If you are considering cutting back overhanging branches or tree roots on your land, we advise you to get the opinion of a qualified tree specialist first, as you may cause the tree to become unstable or die.

Trees that border the footpaths and roads

• Trees that border the roads or pavements are usually maintained by Kent County Council's highways department (opens in new tab)
• Trees that border a public right of way are maintained by Kent County Council’s Rights of Way team (opens in new tab) .

Trees in parks and on Dover District Council land

As a landowner, we have a duty of care to manage trees on our land so they do not present an unreasonable risk to people or property.

We inspect trees regularly to identify problems early. Only essential works will be undertaken in order to manage a tree. The type of works undertaken will depend on the location, species and state of health of the tree.

We will carry out work where there is an issue with:

• tree health – where work is necessary to support the tree’s long-term survival; dead, dying or diseased trees are only removed as a last resort
• tree safety – where a tree poses a potential or immediate danger
• damage – for example, where branches are touching buildings, physical contact with walls, windows and gutters or roots are resulting in structural damage
• fallen trees or loose limbs

We will not carry out work where the issue is only about:

• loss of light or shade
• blocked TV signals
• falling leaves, fruit, seeds, pollen or bird droppings
• overhanging branches

If branches from our tree overhang your garden, you may prune them back. If the tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order or is in a conservation area, you must obtain consent before carrying out any work.

The impact on wildlife of all tree works will always be thoroughly considered. Where appropriate, dead and fallen wood will be left on site, unless there are sound conservation and safety reasons for its complete removal.

Trees alongside railway lines

Trees that border railways and stations, including their car parks, are usually the responsibility of Network Rail.

We are unable to conduct site visits to inspect trees for the presence of disease. If you want confirmation of disease, then you should consult a competent tree advisor.