Do I Need Permission to Fell a Tree in Bradford on Avon?

If you’re thinking about cutting down a tree in Bradford on Avon, you might be wondering: Do I actually need permission?

The short answer is: sometimes yes, sometimes no, and getting it wrong can land you with a hefty fine.

In this guide, we’ll explain:

• When you do need permission

• When you don’t

• How Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) work

• What to do if a tree is dangerous

• How a professional tree surgeon can help

  
  

When You DO Need Permission to Fell a Tree

1. Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)

A Tree Preservation Order is put in place by Wiltshire Council to protect important trees.

If a tree has a TPO:

• You must get written permission before felling, pruning or reducing it

• This applies even if the tree is on your own land

❗ Cutting down a protected tree without consent can result in:

• Unlimited fines

• A requirement to plant a replacement tree

  
  

2. Conservation Areas (Very common in Bradford on Avon)

Large parts of Bradford on Avon fall within a conservation area.

If your property is in one:

• You must give the council 6 weeks’ written notice before felling a tree

• This applies to trees with a trunk diameter over 75mm (measured at chest height)

  
  

The council can then:

• Allow the work

• Or protect the tree with a TPO

  
  

When You DON’T Need Permission

You may not need permission if:

✔️ The tree is not protected by a TPO

✔️ The tree is not in a conservation area

✔️ The tree is dead, dying, or dangerous. However, and this is important, you’ll need evidence if you’re claiming a tree is dangerous (photos, reports, etc.). This is where using a qualified arborist really helps.

What About Dangerous or Storm-Damaged Trees?

If a tree poses an immediate risk to people or property:

• You can usually carry out emergency work without prior permission

• Only the minimum necessary work should be done

  
  

It’s strongly recommended that:

• You document the condition of the tree

• A professional tree surgeon assesses it

This protects you if the council asks questions later.

How Do I Check If My Tree Is Protected?

You can:

• Check Wiltshire Council’s planning portal

• Contact the council directly

• Or ask us, your local tree surgeon to check for you.

• 
  

At JB Arborcare, we regularly help homeowners in Bradford on Avon, Bath and surrounding areas of Wiltshire confirm whether permission is required, and we can even handle the application process.

Why Use a Professional Tree Surgeon?

Tree law can be confusing, and mistakes are expensive.

A professional, insured tree surgeon we will:

• Check TPOs and conservation area rules

• Advise on what permission is needed

• Carry out work safely and legally

• Provide reports if required by the council

Hiring someone without proper arboricultural knowledge (or just a chainsaw) can put you at risk, not them.

Need Advice About a Tree in Bradford on Avon?

If you’re unsure whether you need permission to fell a tree, it’s always best to check before any work starts.

JB Arborcare offers:

• Expert local advice

• Fully insured tree surgery

• Help with permissions and council rules

• Free, no-obligation quotes

📍 Based locally and covering Bradford on Avon, Bath and surrounding Wiltshire villages

👉 Get in touch today to speak to a qualified tree surgeon.