Do Homeowners and Businesses need Permission for Tree Work in West Lancashire or Sefton?

If you’re planning any kind of tree work — whether that’s pruning, crown reduction, thinning, or full removal — one of the first questions to ask is:

“Do I need permission to carry out work on my tree?”

In many cases, the answer is yes. Certain trees are legally protected, and carrying out unauthorised work can result in fines. This guide explains what you need to know if you’re based in West Lancashire or Sefton, and how Veteran Tree Surgeons can help you get it right.

When Is Permission Required for Tree Work?

You may need permission before carrying out tree work if the tree is:

• protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), or

• located within a conservation area

This applies to all types of tree work, not just cutting a tree down.

Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) Explained Simply

A Tree Preservation Order is a legal protection placed on specific trees or groups of trees by the local council.

If a tree has a TPO, you generally cannot:

• prune or trim branches

• carry out crown reduction or thinning

• remove deadwood

• fell or remove the tree

without written consent from the council (unless the tree presents an immediate danger).

TPOs can apply to trees in:

• private gardens

• commercial premises

• roadsides and shared land

Many property owners don’t realise their tree is protected — which is why checking before work starts is essential.

Tree Work in Conservation Areas (West Lancashire & Sefton)

If your property is within a conservation area, most trees are protected by default once they reach a certain size.

In these areas, you are usually required to give the council six weeks’ notice before carrying out work such as:

• pruning or shaping

• crown reductions

• tree removal

• significant cutting back

West Lancashire and Sefton include several conservation areas, so it’s always best to check before booking any work.

What Happens If You Carry Out Tree Work Without Permission?

Unauthorised tree work can lead to:

• hefty fines

• legal enforcement action

• being required to replant trees at your own expense

Even well-intended work can cause problems if permission isn’t in place.

How Veteran Tree Surgeons Handle This for You

At Veteran Tree Surgeons, we take care of the checks so you don’t have to.

We will:

✔️ Confirm whether your tree is protected by a TPO

✔️ Check if your property is in a conservation area

✔️ Advise what type of permission or notice is required

✔️ Guide you through the application process if needed

👉 We’ll check this for you free of charge.

You’ll get clear, honest advice before any work is carried out.

What About Emergency or Dangerous Tree Work?

If a tree is dead, storm-damaged, or posing an immediate risk, different rules may apply — but evidence is often required.

Professional assessment is important to ensure any urgent work is carried out legally and safely.

If you’re concerned about a tree’s safety, don’t ignore it.

Local Tree Surgeons You Can Trust

Veteran Tree Surgeons proudly provide professional tree care across:

• West Lancashire

• Sefton

• surrounding local areas

We’re fully insured, experienced, and committed to responsible tree management — from light pruning to complex removals.

Unsure If You Need Permission? Let Us Check for You

If you’re considering any type of tree work and want peace of mind:

📞 Contact Veteran Tree Surgeons today

📩 Get expert advice and a free quote

🌳 Local specialists you can rely on

We’ll check permissions for you — free of charge.