Acting on instructions from our Planning Department, a Tree Preservation Order can be placed on a tree within the Borough if it’s considered that the tree or trees are worthy of such an Order.
The decision is made based on the health of the tree and its positioning in terms of its amenity in the locality.
There are four different types of Order that can be made; individual trees, trees in an area, groups of trees and woodlands.
If there could be a possible threat or if a tree needs preservation for another reason, instructions for the placing of a Provisional Order will be put together.
The Order is then served to the owner of the land where the tree is situated as well as those persons directly affected by the tree or trees, in order for those persons to raise an objection to the Order being made permanent.
Objectors have 28 days to lodge an objection and the closing date is specified on the paperwork sent out. Owners are also asked to provide details of their interest as a formal Notice which must be returned completed since it is a criminal offence not to do so.
If there’s an objection, Council Officers will contact the objector to try to resolve the dispute and go before the Licensing or Appeals Committee for Members of the Council. Members of the public can attend and speak at the meeting with prior notice and subject to the Chair’s discretion.
The Committee may choose to confirm the Order as made provisionally, confirm it with modification or delete it.
If there are no objections to the Provisional Order then it will be confirmed. A Provisional Order exists for a period of six months and will then be confirmed or reserved.
How to check if there is a TPO
You can view our TPO map.
Trees on public highways and road verges are owned and maintained by Essex Highways. Report a problem at Essex Highways. For enquiries about trees in parks and open spaces (excluding Thorndon and Weald Country Parks, which are the responsibility of Essex County Council) you can fill out the enquiry form.
If you need to carry out works on TPO protected trees
We don’t provide an advisory service for trees on private land, even if they are TPO protected. Find details of approved tree surgeons in the local area by visiting Arboricultural Association.
If you need to report a damaged, dying or dangerous TPO protected tree, email planning@brentwood.gov.uk, at least five working days before any work starts. You should send photographic evidence of the tree's condition.
To apply for tree works, go to the Planning Portal.
How to get a copy of a TPO
To get a copy of a TPO, you can use our online form. There is a charge of £16.90 per copy.
View submitted TPO applications
TPO applications can be viewed on our Public Access system.