Tree Work Applications in Conservation Area - A Guide for North and South Lanarkshire

If you live in a Conservation Area in North Lanarkshire or South Lanarkshire, and need to carry out any tree work, you are legally required to notify the council—even if there’s no Tree Preservation Order (TPO) in place.

Many homeowners and property managers are unaware of this rule and risk legal trouble by proceeding without permission. At Excelsior Tree Surgery, we regularly help clients through this process, ensuring compliance and peace of mind.

Here’s everything you need to know about tree work applications in Conservation Areas across Lanarkshire.

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What is a Conservation Area?

A Conservation Area is a designated zone recognised for its special architectural or historical interest. In these areas, the local council (either North or South Lanarkshire) aims to preserve the character of buildings, open spaces—and crucially, mature trees.

Any tree with a stem diameter greater than 75mm at 1.5m above ground is protected in a Conservation Area. This means that even routine work like pruning, crown thinning, or felling requires permission.

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Do I Need Permission to Work on Trees in a Conservation Area?

Yes. You must give the council six weeks’ written notice before any work begins. This is known as a Section 211 Notice.

If the council does not respond within six weeks, and no Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is made, you may proceed with the work as described. However, if they object, they can serve a new TPO to protect the tree more formally.

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Step-by-Step: Tree Work Application in a Conservation Area

1. Check Your Conservation Area Status

First, find out if your property lies within a designated Conservation Area.

North Lanarkshire Council: Contact greenspace@northlan.gov.uk or use their online map services.

South Lanarkshire Council: Email planning@southlanarkshire.gov.uk or search their Conservation Area maps online.

Alternatively, our team can carry out this check during a free tree inspection.

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2. Get a Professional Tree Assessment

We always recommend having your tree inspected by a qualified arborist before submitting a Section 211 notice.

At Excelsior Tree Surgery, we’ll:

Assess the tree’s health, structure, and surrounding environment

Provide photographic records and accurate species identification

Recommend appropriate pruning or removal techniques that meet BS3998 tree work standards

This level of detail improves your chances of approval and shows the council that the work is justified and being handled responsibly.

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3. Submit a Section 211 Notification

Your notice should include:

Applicant’s name and contact details

Exact location of the tree(s)

A written description of the work

A sketch plan or map

Supporting documents (photos, arborist report, safety concerns)

You can email or post your application to the council’s planning department. In some cases, you may use the Planning Portal, although Conservation Area notices are often submitted directly to the local authority.

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4. Wait the Statutory 6 Weeks

After you’ve submitted your notice:

The council has 6 weeks to consider the application

They may contact you for further information or carry out a site visit

If they raise no objection, you’re free to proceed after the 6-week period

If they serve a TPO, you must follow the formal TPO application process instead

Important: Do not begin any work until the 6-week period has expired and no TPO has been issued.

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Common Reasons for Tree Work in Conservation Areas

Dead or dying trees posing safety risks

Structural damage to walls or drains from tree roots

Excessive shading of gardens or neighbouring properties

Overhanging branches near roads, buildings, or power lines

Regular maintenance of healthy trees to avoid future hazards

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Penalties for Unauthorized Tree Work

Carrying out work without permission can result in:

Fines up to £20,000 for each tree damaged or removed

Enforcement action requiring replacement planting

Damage to your reputation or delays in property sales

That’s why working with a qualified tree surgery company like ours is the safest route.

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Why Use Excelsior Tree Surgery?

We are trusted, local experts serving communities across Hamilton, Motherwell, East Kilbride, Larkhall, and surrounding areas. When dealing with Conservation Area tree work, we provide:

Free consultations and Conservation Area checks

Professional arborist reports for council submission

Full liaison with planning officers

Qualified, insured tree surgeons using industry-standard techniques

Whether it’s crown lifting, storm damage removal, or full dismantling of a hazardous tree, we take care of the red tape—so you don’t have to.

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Final Thoughts

Tree work in a Conservation Area doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right advice and professional support, you can preserve the beauty of your surroundings while protecting your property and staying within the law.

If you're unsure whether your tree is protected or need help with the application process, get in touch with Excelsior Tree Surgery. We’re here to guide you through it from start to finish.