Trees on development sites

Planning application requirements

If you are submitting a planning application for a site with existing trees, you must include:

• a tree survey
• a tree constraints plan, as outlined in British Standard 5837: 2012 trees in relation to construction.

Protecting trees during development

Any existing trees to be retained should be protected during the course of development, using measures specified in the British Standard.

Landscaping schemes

Conditions

Planning permission often includes conditions requiring a landscaping scheme. This usually involves planting trees and shrubs. Known as soft landscaping.

• Soft landscaping should be carried out in the first planting season after development finishes.
• A planting season runs from 1 October to 31 March.
• Landscaping is usually protected for five years under these conditions.

Guidelines for tree planting

Before planting trees, consider the following:

• Understand how large the trees will grow.
• Choose locally native species - they are more likely to thrive and support local wildlife.
• Look around your area to see which tree species grow well.

Forestry grant schemes

Forestry is regulated by the Forestry Commission. It offers grants for planting new woodlands. Find out more and apply.

Felling licences

If you plan to fell more than five cubic metres of timber per calendar quarter (or two cubic metres if it is for sale), you must get a licence from the Forestry Commission. Find out more and apply.