Tree Preservation orders

[rescuer]

A friend grew a tree from seed in his garden. It has now grown to a great height and he would like to have it chopped down. There is no preservation order on it.
However he is afraid that the Council will take him to court if he has it knocked down.
Any advice?

[LoftyLottie]

All reputable tree fellers and surgeons will consult with the local council to see if there is a preservation order on a tree before it is felled. They are also insured. I can't see that your friend should worry. Why does he think he will be taken to court for taking down a tree without a preservation order on it?

[rescuer]

Thanks LoftieLottie for reply.
He knows of someone in his area who was taken to court and fined £1500.
He doesn't know if this had had a preservation order on it.
He would have a man do because the man has a wood burning stove, and he would do it free as he needs the wood.

[factor-fiction]

Sorry, I thought I was in the Gaming section

[LoftyLottie]

He needs to be careful that the person doing it knows what he is doing. He will be in trouble if the tree falls incorrectly and damages any person or property. That is why a qualified tree feller would be better. It sounds as if the person he knew that was fined took down a tree with a TPO.

[LoftyLottie]

He could always check with the council. Sometimes there are local bylaws about felling trees. I know Letchworth in Hertfordshire has special rules about it. A quick call to his local council would put his mind at rest.

[bushbaby_de]

If he planted the tree and has always lived there since he planted it there is no way there could be a TPO without him knowing as the owner has to be notified. However there's also rules about felling trees in conservation areas, or there may be bylaws as another poster has written.