Charnwood Borough Council

Frequently Asked Questions: Tree & Hedge Protection

Where can I get some information on Tree Preservation Orders?

Can field hedgerows be removed?

Where can I get some information on high hedges?

What tree species should I plant?

Tree Preservation Orders & Trees in Conservation Areas

Guidance and information to tree owners on the protection of trees and how to get consent from their local authority to fell or prune a protected tree is available from ‘Protected Trees: A Guide to Tree Preservation Procedures’, which can be found on the Communities and Local Government Website.

Removal of Hedgerows & ‘Hedgerow Regulations 1997’

Hedgerows are protected by the Hedgerows Regulations 1997. Under the Regulations, it is against the law to remove or destroy certain hedgerows without permission from the local planning authority. Permission is required before removing hedges that are at least 20 metres in length, over 30 years old and are either of historic importance or wildlife value as defined under the Regulations.

More detailed guidance is contained in The Hedgerows Regulations 1997: A Guide to the Law and Good Practice, which can be viewed at the Office of Public Sector Information Website

Complaints in Respect of High Hedges

Information can be viewed at Charnwood Borough Council’s website.

Use of Locally Native Species in Tree Planting Schemes

Guidance on the trees and shrubs which are most appropriate for inclusion in planting schemes is available. Please contact us and ask for the document 'Locally Native Trees in Charnwood District'.