If a tree on your property has a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), you cannot simply cut, prune, or remove it without getting permission from the local council first. It sounds daunting, but it doesn’t have to be.
At Elats Ltd, we handle the entire process for you, from checking whether your tree is protected, to submitting the application and carrying out the approved work safely and professionally. We’re based right here in Leighton Buzzard, so we know the local regulations and submit applications to Central Bedfordshire Council.
A Tree Preservation Order, or TPO, is a legal protection placed on individual trees, groups of trees, or woodland by the local council. It’s used when a tree makes a significant contribution to the local environment or landscape.
In simple terms if your tree has a TPO, you need council consent before carrying out any work on it. This includes pruning, crown reduction, felling, and even removing overhanging branches.
Failing to get permission is a criminal offence. Under the Town and Country Planning Act, you could face a fine of up to £20,000 if work is carried out without approval.
Many homeowners in Leighton Buzzard are unaware their trees are protected until they try to carry out work without permission.
You can check whether your tree is protected by:
Even if your tree is in a conservation area (rather than under a named TPO), the rules still apply. You must give the council at least 6 weeks’ notice before any work begins.
You cannot carry out most types of tree work under a TPO without written council approval. However, there is one exception:
You don’t need to chase paperwork or navigate planning portals. We look after everything.
Safely reducing the height and spread of the canopy while keeping the tree's natural shape
Improving the structure and appearance of the tree
Removing selected branches to improve light and airflow through the tree
Where approved by the council, safe removal of the whole tree in sections
Removing dead, dying, or diseased branches to protect the tree and reduce risk
Removing the remaining stump once a tree has been felled
There are plenty of tree surgeons in Leighton Buzzard. Here’s why our customers choose us:
We know the local rules. As a Leighton Buzzard-based business, we deal with Central Bedfordshire Council regularly. We understand what applications need to include and how to avoid delays.
We don’t cut corners. No reputable tree surgeon will carry out work on a protected tree without proper consent. We never do — and we’ll always tell you honestly what’s required before we start.
We’re fully qualified and insured. Our team holds NPTC qualifications, and we carry full public liability insurance. Every job comes with a written quote that includes waste removal.
We explain everything clearly. TPO applications can seem complicated. We’ll walk you through every step, tell you what to expect, and keep you updated throughout.
Most TPO applications for reasonable, professionally supported tree work are approved — especially when the reason is clearly explained and backed up with evidence. Common reasons that councils accept include:
We offer a free site visit and written quote, so there are no surprises. Finance options are also available through our approved provider for larger jobs.
You can remove deadwood without council consent, but it's advisable to document what you've removed. All other work — including pruning a single branch — requires a formal application and written approval.
It is a criminal offence. Central Bedfordshire Council can issue a fine of up to £20,000. In some cases, you may also be required to replace the tree with one of equivalent size and value — which can be extremely costly.
Central Bedfordshire Council aims to process TPO work applications within 8 weeks. Conservation area notifications require a minimum 6 weeks' notice period. We factor this into our timeline so there are no unnecessary delays.
Yes, the application itself is free of charge. However, applications that lack a clear statement of reasons, supporting photos, or an arboricultural report are often refused or delayed. We handle the full process to give your application the best chance.
Contact us. We can check the TPO register, visit your property, and advise you on what's protected and what options you have — before any work takes place.
Yes. Trees in conservation areas are also protected, even without a named TPO. We handle notifications and work in conservation areas across Leighton Buzzard and the surrounding villages.
We carry out TPO tree work across Leighton Buzzard and the surrounding area, including:
Linslade, Heath & Reach, Eggington, Stanbridge, Hockliffe, Soulbury, Stewkley, Wing, Stoke Hammond, Cheddington, and the wider Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire areas.
We also serve clients in
We’ll check the TPO register, visit your property, and tell you exactly where you stand — at no cost and with no obligation. Once you know what’s needed, we’ll handle the rest.
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