Tree Preservation Order (TPO) Application Guide for North & South Lanarkshire

If you're planning tree surgery in North or South Lanarkshire and have discovered that a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is in place, you’ll need to apply for permission before any work can be carried out. As a professional tree surgery company based locally, we’ve helped dozens of homeowners, landlords, and developers navigate the TPO process smoothly. Here’s everything you need to know.

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What is a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)?

A Tree Preservation Order is a legal protection issued by the local council—either North Lanarkshire Council or South Lanarkshire Council—to protect specific trees, groups of trees, or woodland. It prevents felling, lopping, topping, uprooting, or any form of intentional damage without formal permission.

Violating a TPO can lead to significant fines and enforcement action.

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Step-by-Step: TPO Application Process in Lanarkshire

1. Check if a TPO is in Place

Before planning any work, you must check if your tree is protected:

North Lanarkshire Council: You can email greenspace@northlan.gov.uk or use the council's online GIS tool.

South Lanarkshire Council: Contact planning@southlanarkshire.gov.uk or search their interactive map for TPO designations.

Alternatively, we can do this on your behalf as part of our initial tree assessment.

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2. Assess the Tree with a Qualified Arborist

If a TPO exists, your next step is to get the tree professionally assessed. At Excelsior Tree Surgery, we provide written arboricultural reports outlining:

Tree health and safety concerns

Risk of structural damage to nearby buildings

Justification for proposed work (e.g. deadwood removal, crown reduction, or felling)

These reports are crucial for strengthening your application and demonstrating that the proposed work is necessary and proportionate.

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3. Submit the TPO Application (Form 1)

TPO applications in both councils follow the UK-wide Form 1: Tree Work Application format. You’ll need:

Full contact details of the applicant

A clear plan of work (with photographs and location maps)

Supporting documentation (e.g. arborist report, property damage evidence)

Details of the tree species, size, location, and condition

Applications can be submitted online through the Planning Portal or posted directly to the respective council offices.

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4. Wait for a Decision (Up to 8 Weeks)

Once submitted, the council will:

Acknowledge your application

Notify neighbours if required

Carry out a site visit (sometimes with your tree surgeon)

Make a decision within 8 weeks

You must not begin any work until formal written permission is granted.

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5. Permission Granted – Book the Work

Once approved, you have two years to carry out the work as specified. We’ll schedule the job at a time that suits you and ensure all work is done to BS3998 tree work standards, as councils often review the outcome.

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What if My TPO Application is Refused?

If refused, you’ll receive a decision notice with reasons. You have the right to appeal to the Scottish Government within 28 days.

In many cases, refining the proposal or providing additional expert input can lead to approval upon re-submission.

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Common Reasons for TPO Applications in Lanarkshire

Safety concerns (e.g. decaying limbs overhanging roads or buildings)

Property damage (roots undermining foundations or drainage)

Excessive shading or light restriction

Storm-damaged or diseased trees

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Why Choose Excelsior Tree Surgery?

We are local experts with years of experience dealing with TPO-protected trees across North and South Lanarkshire. Our services include:

Free initial inspections

Detailed TPO reports for planning departments

Submission and liaison with the council

Professional tree surgery to the highest standards

We understand the urgency, the paperwork, and the planning jargon – so let us handle it for you.

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Final Thoughts

Getting permission to work on a TPO-protected tree in Lanarkshire doesn’t need to be stressful. With the right advice and a clear process, you can protect your property and remain compliant with the law.

Need help with a TPO application? Contact Excelsior Tree Surgery today for expert advice and a free consultation.