Make an application for works to trees

You do not need to fill out a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) application form to remove a TPO tree or tree in a conservation area that is dead. However, you must give us at least 5 working days prior written notice before cutting down or carrying out other works to the tree unless there is an immediate risk of serious harm.

To do so, get in touch with protectedtrees@sheffield.gov.uk.

Include information about the tree’s location, the TPO (if known), or conservation area, and state what works you intend to carry out.  

As we will need to verify the location and condition of the tree, it will assist us in assessing the notice promptly if you include photographs. Images of the tree will also serve as evidence that the tree was dead and therefore exempt from the requirement to submit a TPO application or conservation area notice.

An exception allows removal of dead branches from a living tree without prior notice or consent. 

Giving notice to work on a dangerous protected tree

Where a protected tree presents an immediate risk of serious harm and work is urgently needed to remove that risk, tree owners, or their agents, must give written notice to the authority as soon as practical after that work becomes necessary.

You can also no longer give 5 days' notice of works to dying trees. You must now apply for permission or give us notice to prune or remove dying trees.

To give written notice or apply for permission, get in touch with protectedtrees@sheffield.gov.uk.

Work should only be carried out to the extent that it is necessary to remove the risk. The tree must present a serious safety risk to qualify under this exception.

Include information about the tree’s location, the TPO (if known), or conservation area, and state what works you intend to, or have already carried out.

We advise you include photographs. These will help us to determine whether the tree was dangerous and therefore exempt from the requirement to submit a TPO application or conservation area notice.

If you want to tell us about a fallen or dangerous tree that is on Council land, contact the Parks and Countryside service for trees in Council parks and woodlands by calling 01142 500500 or by going to About trees and woodlands.

To report issues with street trees please call 0114 2734567 or go to Managing and looking after street trees.

Replacing protected trees

TPO trees

There is a duty to replace trees that are removed unlawfully or removed because they are dead or dangerous. 

Where TPO trees are removed for other reasons and the Council consents to the removal, it may add a condition to the consent which requires the replanting of another tree.

Conservation area

There is a duty to replace trees that are removed unlawfully, or removed because they are dead or dangerous.

Where a duty or condition applies, the Council may inform the landowner and include information regarding replanting, including:

• tree size and species
• location of replacement planting 
• timescales for replacement

What happens if you cut down protected trees without  permission

You could be prosecuted for offences in respect of each tree. If convicted, you may be liable to an unlimited fine. You would also need to replace any tree removed without permission.

We can enforce tree replacement by serving a ‘Tree Replacement Notice.'