Trees and woodlands are an essential part of Torbay’s character and identity. They help to breathe life into the area, providing a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. They tell us of the seasons, and bring us into contact with nature.

Torbay is geologically and topographically complex, and comprises urban areas of Victorian and later periods developed over ancient countryside, looking towards its most important asset- the sea. The aesthetic aspirations of our forefathers in the towns of Torbay, and their love of trees and landscape, are reflected in the rich variety of landscape types and qualities. Some of the most important natural elements of the local environment are trees. These trees, help define Torbay, and add to its attraction as the foremost UK Tourist resort. Trees, whether appearing as individuals, groups or as woodlands, have a significant effect on our quality of life by providing direct and indirect benefits. All local authorities have a duty to protect significant trees for their amenity value and most, Torbay Council being no exception, manage a large number of trees both directly and indirectly.

Many trees in Torbay are protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) under the Town & Country Planning Act 1990. Additionally, trees in Conservation Areas are automatically given similar protection status. Nevertheless, this protection is not itself enough to prevent the loss of trees on new developments.

Torbay Council is now a Unitary Authority, with responsibility for Highway trees in addition to those in Parks and Public Open Space, Woodlands, and on other Council-owned land.

The Arboricultural section within Residents and Visitor Services deal with trees within privately owned properties that are covered by Tree Preservation Orders, trees within the boundaries of Conservation Areas, trees affected by development, High Hedges and trees on the highway or within parks and public spaces.

Local Planning Authorities have powers to protect trees by TPOs. There are also special provisions for trees within Conservation Areas. All types of tree, including hedgerow trees (but not hedges), bushes and shrubs can be covered by a TPO.

Most people are aware that trees can have some kind of protection to prevent them being cut down, but mystery, myth and apocryphal tales are rife. However, when it comes to trees, as with anything else, ignorance is no defence in Law.

Visit our Interactive Mapping System (GIS) and search on the property details.

Please note: if this system shows a Tree Preservation Order or Conservation Area in/near the property please telephone for clarification.  Do not solely rely on this system

You can contact the department by using the contact details above. Once you inform us of the address of where the tree is situated, we will then be able to tell you whether a tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order, lies within a Conservation Area, or is subject to a Planning or Landscaping Condition.

If you are purchasing a new property, your solicitor should be able to inform you if any of the trees within the property’s boundaries are protected. Torbay Council currently has a leaflet available to provide advice for new homeowners (see below).