Penalties for undertaking work on a protected tree
It is an offence to cut down, uproot, damage or destroy a protected tree covered by a Tree Preservation Order or one within a conservation area.
A person convicted may be fined up to £20,000. Unlimited fines can also be imposed equal to the rise in land value resulting from a tree clearance.
Undertaking work on a protected tree without destroying it is also an offence with a fine of up to £2,500.
Any individual or company carrying out work to a protected tree is liable for prosecution, as is anyone who permits or engages them.
Failing to apply for tree work consent is also considered an offence and may incur a fine.