Trees in conservation areas

All trees in conservation areas are protected if they have a stem diameter of 75 millimetres, measured at 1.5 metres above ground level.

It's an offence to work on a tree in a conservation area without giving Oxford City Council 6 weeks' written notice. This notice period allows us to decide if the tree(s) need protection through a Tree Preservation Order (TPO).

Find out if a tree is protected

Oxford City Council oversees over 250 TPOs and 18 conservation areas within Oxford. To see if a tree falls under a TPO or is within a conservation area, check our online map.

How to notify us about tree work in a conservation area

To notify us about tree work in a conservation area, you can apply via the Planning Portal website or write to us with:

• the precise location of the trees (use a plan if needed)
• specific details of the proposed tree work

Ensure your proposal is specific. General terms like 'prune' or 'cut back' are insufficient. We recommend consulting an arboriculturalist before submitting your notice.

Additionally, it's helpful to include:

• the reason for the work, with supporting evidence if necessary
• details of who owns the trees

Notify us of tree works (Planning Portal)

There's an exception for work on dead or dangerous trees in a conservation area. However, you must prove the condition of the tree(s), which excepts them from the notice requirement. If you plan to work under this exception, we strongly advise contacting Oxford City Council for guidance beforehand.