Playhouses and Tree Preservation Orders: What You Need to Know

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Playhouses and Tree Preservation Orders: What You Need to Know

When planning to install a playhouse in your garden, it can be an exciting prospect for the whole family. However, if your garden has any protected trees, it’s essential to be aware of the implications of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) before starting your project. A TPO is a legal mechanism put in place by your local authority to protect specific trees, groups of trees, or woodlands that have significant value to the community. Understanding the impact of TPOs is crucial to avoid fines, ensure compliance, and safeguard your project.

What is a Tree Preservation Order (TPO)?

A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is a legal order issued by local councils in the UK to protect trees deemed valuable to the environment, heritage, or landscape. These trees can be in private gardens or public spaces, and the purpose of a TPO is to prevent any activity that could harm them, including cutting, lopping, uprooting, or wilful damage.

TPOs are important because they ensure that valuable green assets remain protected for future generations. As such, when planning any garden building project, including a playhouse installation, it’s vital to identify whether any nearby trees are covered by a TPO.

Installing a Playhouse Near a Protected Tree: Key Considerations

If you have identified that there are trees in your garden protected by a TPO, there are specific considerations you must keep in mind when installing a playhouse.

1. Consult Your Local Authority

Before making any plans, contact your local planning authority to confirm if there is a TPO in place on the trees near your proposed playhouse location. They can provide information on restrictions and necessary permissions. This step is crucial because failing to comply with a TPO can lead to significant fines or enforcement actions.

2. Avoid Root Zone Disturbance

Trees protected by TPOs are often vulnerable to root damage, which can be caused by digging, installing foundations, or even placing heavy structures over the root area. When installing a playhouse, make sure it is positioned well outside the tree’s root protection zone. A general rule of thumb is to avoid any construction within a radius equal to 12 times the tree’s diameter at chest height. Minimising root disturbance is crucial, as damaging the roots can cause long-term harm to the tree’s health.

3. Above-Ground Foundations

If placing the playhouse near a protected tree is unavoidable, consider using above-ground foundations, such as timber posts or a platform that rests on adjustable supports. These types of foundations help prevent unnecessary digging and minimise impact on the tree roots. The goal is to avoid excavation that might compromise the stability and vitality of the tree.

4. Canopy and Branch Interference

When positioning the playhouse, ensure it is located away from the tree’s canopy to prevent branches from being cut or damaged during installation or use. Any works that involve cutting branches or lopping a protected tree will require permission from the local authority. It’s best to avoid such work whenever possible to remain compliant and maintain the integrity of the protected tree.

5. Consider Tree Growth

Another consideration is the potential growth of the tree. Even if the playhouse seems adequately positioned now, consider whether the tree will grow in ways that might create issues in the future. A well-considered location can help avoid needing future adjustments or permission requests.

Getting Permission for Works Near a TPO Tree

If it’s necessary to carry out any work that may affect a protected tree—whether it’s trimming branches or installing a garden structure nearby—you must apply for consent from your local council. This process involves submitting an application that details the nature of the work, why it’s necessary, and what impact it might have on the tree. Approval may take several weeks, and the council may impose specific conditions to ensure the protection of the tree.

It’s worth noting that there are penalties for unauthorised work on protected trees. Fines can be significant—up to £20,000 in a magistrate’s court or unlimited if the case goes to a Crown Court. Therefore, it’s best to err on the side of caution and consult with your local authority whenever in doubt.

Practical Tips for Playhouse Installation Around Protected Trees

• Position the playhouse as far as possible from the tree to avoid interference with roots or branches.
• Use non-invasive, above-ground foundation methods to prevent root damage.
• Consult an arboriculturist if you’re unsure about the tree’s root protection area or how it may be impacted.
• Submit an application to the local council if any tree works are necessary, even if it’s just minor pruning.

Conclusion

Installing a playhouse can bring joy to children and create a wonderful space for imaginative play. However, if you have trees protected by a TPO in your garden, it’s important to proceed with caution and ensure you follow all the rules and guidelines set by your local authority. By respecting these protected trees and planning carefully, you can create a safe and enjoyable space for your family while preserving the beauty and health of the trees that make your garden special.