Short answer: usually not for an ordinary garden tree — but you do if it has a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or sits in a conservation area. Here's how to tell, in plain English.
Two things make a tree protected, and either one means you must ask the council before any cutting — even on your own land:
If neither applies, you're generally free to prune or remove a tree in your own garden — though you should still avoid disturbing nesting birds (see below).
Ask your local council's tree or planning team, giving the property address:
Many councils publish an online map of TPOs and conservation areas you can search yourself. Checking costs nothing and takes a phone call or a few minutes online.
Working on a protected tree without consent is a criminal offence and can carry a significant fine. When in doubt, check first.
Separate from TPOs, it's an offence to damage or destroy an active bird's nest. The main nesting season runs roughly March to August, so hedge and tree work in that window is checked for nests first. GrowWell plans jobs around this.
Often not — but you do if the tree has a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) on it, or if it stands in a conservation area. In those cases you must apply to the local council before any work, even on your own land.
Contact the tree or planning team at your local council — Gloucester City Council or Cheltenham Borough Council — and ask, giving the address. Many councils also have an online map of protected trees. It is free to check.
Working on a tree with a TPO, or in a conservation area, without consent is a criminal offence and can carry a significant fine. It is always worth checking first.
For trees in a conservation area you give the council six weeks’ notice. A TPO application is typically decided within about eight weeks. GrowWell will flag whether your tree is likely affected when quoting.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Always confirm with your local council for your specific tree.
When GrowWell comes to quote, you'll be told if your tree looks likely to be protected — so nothing gets cut that shouldn't be.