Release Date: July 5, 2023
The trees, hedges and woods throughout the district are incredibly valuable. They contribute significantly to the health and well-being of our local communities, the local environment and the wider global environment by providing a range of ecosystem services.
The Council this year completed the highly successful planting program of 110,000 trees, one for every North Norfolk resident. Trees, hedges and forests are incredibly important and valued to our residents. The Council has also planted six Miyawaki Woods in Sheringham, Fakenham, North Walsham, Hindringham, Cromer and Beeston Regis.
One way to protect our green heritage is through Tree Protection Ordinances (TPO) and designated protected areas, where an individual tree, a group, a forest or even a forest can be protected.
Tree protection ordinances apply throughout the district. If your tree is protected or growing in a conservation area, you must apply before tree work is undertaken.
The application process is free and can usually be completed by your arborist. Tree work can be incredibly dangerous and we always recommend hiring a professional arborist to do the tree care.
Anyone who breaches a TPO by damaging a protected tree or carrying out work on it without permission from the local planning authority can be guilty of a criminal offense and face a fine of up to £20,000 if convicted. In serious cases, a person can be charged in Crown Court and, if convicted, can be fined indefinitely.
clr. Adam Varley, portfolio owner of climate change and net zero said:
“Trees are so important. They provide us with oxygen and store carbon; They stabilize the soil, increase the habitat for wildlife and much more. TPOs will ensure that these trees and forests are protected and continue to thrive.”
Find out more about Tree Conservation Regulations here: www.north-norfolk.gov.uk/tasks/conservation/trees-and-hedges/
Find out who owns a tree here: www.gov.uk/Government/organisations/land-registry
Apply for felling or tree operation on a protected tree here:
www.north-norfolk.gov.uk
https://www.north-norfolk.gov.uk/news/2023/june/july/help-us-protect-our-trees-hedgerows-and-woodlands/
