What is a Tree Preservation Order?
Winchester City Council describes a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) as legal protection for trees that make a significant impact on their surroundings and may be under threat. The council states that it is an offence to cut down, top, lop, uproot, wilfully damage or wilfully destroy a TPO-protected tree without consent.
How do I check whether a Winchester tree is protected?
Winchester City Council provides a public mapping service for TPOs and conservation areas. The council also warns that map layers are indicative and advises contacting its tree team to confirm protection status before work.
What about trees in a conservation area?
Government guidance explains that trees in a conservation area that are not already covered by a TPO are protected through section 211 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. In general, a section 211 notice gives the local planning authority six weeks’ notice before certain work, unless an exception applies.
Can Hampshire Tree & Landscapes help?
Yes. We can discuss the proposed tree work, explain the practical information normally needed for a clear specification and help you avoid booking work before the protection status has been checked. Where formal consent or notification is required, the application remains subject to the council’s decision and current rules.
Before you book tree work
- Identify the tree species and the work you are considering.
- Check whether the tree has a TPO or sits within a conservation area.
- Confirm whether consent, notice or an exception applies.
- Keep the proposed work specific—for example, crown reduction by an appropriate amount rather than vague “lopping”.
- Use a suitably qualified and insured tree contractor.
Official sources
- Winchester City Council – Tree Preservation Orders
- Winchester City Council – View protected trees on a map
- Winchester City Council – Trees in conservation areas
- GOV.UK – TPOs and trees in conservation areas
Sources checked during this static-site build in August 2026. Always use the current council/GOV.UK guidance when you are ready to carry out work.