Trees in Relation to Development

Legal Protection

Trees are protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs), which require consent from the LPA before pruning or felling. Trees in conservation areas have automatic protection — 6 weeks' notice must be given before any work. Ancient and veteran trees have strong NPPF protection as irreplaceable habitats.

BS 5837:2012

BS 5837 is the key standard for trees in relation to design, demolition and construction. It requires a tree survey categorising trees as A (high quality), B (moderate quality), C (low quality) or U (remove irrespective). Root protection areas (RPAs) are calculated as 12 times the stem diameter.

Key Principles

Category A and B trees should normally be retained and designed around. RPAs must be kept free from development, level changes, and services. Where encroachment into RPAs is unavoidable, special construction methods (no-dig, pile foundations) may be acceptable with arboricultural supervision.

Common Issues

Failing to survey trees before designing the layout, underestimating RPAs, proposing significant pruning to accommodate development, and not providing adequate tree protection during construction.

Related Topics: Ecology, Design, Landscaping