A conservation area is an area of special historical or architectural interest that the Council intend to preserve or enhance. Within a conservation area the council has extra controls over a number of factors including the protection of trees.
There are 20 conservation areas in Southampton, all of varying sizes. Only trees with a trunk diameter greater than 75mm at 1.5m above ground level are protected.
If you wish to carry out work on a tree in a conservation area you will need to give six weeks written notification of intent to carry out the works. This allows time for a tree officer to visit the site and make an assessment of whether the work is approriate.
Pruning a tree without giving six weeks notice can lead to prosecution and a fine of up to £2,500. Destroying a tree without giving six weeks notice can lead to a fine of up to £20,000.
In certain situations a tree preservation order may be placed on a tree within a conservation area to prevent works being carried out.
Complete the online form to find out if a tree is situated within a conservation area. Alternatively call Actionline on 0800 519 19 19 or email the trees team.
Notification can be made by using a 1APP form. This form can be downloaded, it can also be completed online on the planning portal website. A form can also be requested by contacting the Actionline. Guidance notes about making a 1APP can be viewed and printed. There are also guidance notes for making a 1APP online.
The status of a 1APP can be checked online.
Southampton City Council
