How to Apply for Works to a Protected Tree

If you are planning to carry out work to a tree(s) that is protected by being within a conservation area, protected by a tree preservation order (TPO) or protected by a planning condition, you are required to submit a tree works form. This can be submitted through ePlanning.Scot where paper forms are also available together with guidance on the requirements.

You will be required to show that you are either the landowner or factor for the land on which the trees or woodland stand or have been given formal consent from the landowner, as part of the application process. This can be in the form of:

• Signed letter from the landowner confirming they have given permission for tree works.
• Land registry title confirming you own the land

Fife Council cannot grant permission to undertake tree works to trees either not owned by the applicant, or trees for which formal permission has not been given for tree works.

You will also be required to submit the following information with your application:

• Tree report where required
• Plan showing location of trees (more info below)
• Statement as to why the works are required

While not a validation requirement, photographs of the trees as existing can help to speed up the process.

Plan submission requirements

Your plan should clearly show the exact location of the trees in relation to the nearby properties, roads and boundaries. it must include:

• Main features of the site and surrounding area, including:
  • Marked and named surrounding roads
  • Position and approximate distance of the nearest buildings from the trees
  • House numbers or names

• Position of the trees you want to work on, identified by the number in the tree preservation order (or a matching number).
• If there are many trees, make it clear which ones are included in the application by:
  • Marking all trees on the plan but only numbering those you want to work on
  • Showing the approximate distance between the trees and buildings
  • Indicating other relevant features (e.g., greenhouse, paths)

• If individual trees can't be accurately identified (e.g., in a woodland), show their approximate location and how they are marked on-site (e.g., with high-visibility tape, tree tags, paint). Do not mark trees by scarring or cutting into the bark.