Homeowners could be fined £20k for cutting garden trees
Martin Fielding, from Stockport, thought it was just a 'regular tree' he was trimming back in his garden until he received an unsettling letter from the council.
As more Brits dust off the tools and tidy up their gardens this spring, experts say thousands may unknowingly be breaking the law simply by cutting back or removing trees in their own backyard.
According to home experts at My Home Improvements, many people don't realise that trees in residential gardens may be protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs).
It means that if you cut down, lop, damage, or destroy a protected tree without permission, it could result in criminal prosecution and a fine of up to £20,000 in a magistrates' court.
Mr Fielding, 51, didn't realise that certain trees – even if its in your garden – can be protected.
'It was blocking the light in the conservatory and leaning over the fence,' he explained.
'So I gave it a proper cut.'
But soon after he received a letter from the local council telling him the tree was protected and that he may have breached the order by cutting back too much.
'I didn't even know such a thing existed. I thought trees in your own garden were your responsibility,' Mr Fielding continued.
'I was shocked to learn I could be fined thousands.'
Plants that could damage the value of your home
What is a Tree Preservation Order?
A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is a legal protection issued by your local council to prevent important trees from being cut, pruned, damaged or removed without consent.
These orders apply to trees that have environmental, historical or aesthetic value and yes, even if they're on your private property.
Failing to get approval before carrying out work on a protected tree is a criminal offence.
'The trouble is, most homeowners have no idea their tree is protected,' says Sophie Willoughby, a gardening expert who was contacted by My Home Improvements.
'It's easy to think you're just doing routine garden work, but one snip too many and you could face a hefty fine,' Sophie explains.
'Councils take it very seriously and so they should, because mature trees are crucial for wildlife and air quality.'
How to avoid a £20,000 fine
To help homeowners avoid legal trouble this gardening season, My Home Improvements has shared some simple but important advice to keep things safe and legal in your garden.
Check with your council – before cutting or trimming any large trees, contact your local authority to find out if there's a TPO in place.
Don't assume it's okay just because it's in your garden
Get written permission – if a tree is protected, you must apply for permission to do any work on it.
Recommended reading:
Take photos before you prune – this helps if there's any dispute over what was done.
Use a professional tree surgeon
A spokesperson from My Home Improvements, added: 'Before you pick up the saw or shears, take a moment to check your tree isn't protected.
"Councils don't issue TPOs lightly and breaching one can land you in legal trouble.
'Whether you're trimming, pruning or removing, always ask first, as it's a simple step that could save you £20,000 and a trip to court.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Glasgow Times
3 hours ago
- Glasgow Times
When Bindweed flowers in UK and how to kill and remove it
Bindweed is one of the common plants that can flower and cause problems in your garden. While it may look pretty, it has been described by experts as "rampant" and can "quickly smother other plants in your garden". Here is all to know about Bindweed, including what it looks like, when it flowers in the UK, if it is poisonous and how to remove it. How to Get Rid of These Common Garden Pests What is Bindweed and what does it look like? Bindweed is a UK native wildflower, and while it can be beneficial to wildlife, its spreading roots and twining stems can cause issues in gardens. The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) highlights two types of common Bindweed, namely Hedge bindweed and Field Bindweed. Hedge Bindweed has heart-shaped leaves and funnel-shaped flowers. These are "usually white but can also be pale pink with a white centre and five white stripes". "After flowering, rounded capsules form, each containing up to four oval-shaped brown seeds," the RHS adds. Hedge Bindweed has heart-shaped leaves and funnel-shaped flowers (Image: Getty Images) Field Bindweed is described as "smaller and less vigorous", and has oval to arrow-shaped, grey-green leaves, with funnel-shaped flowers that are often pale pink, but can also be pink with a white centre and stripes, or plain white. When does Bindweed flower in the UK? Wildlife Trusts notes that Bindweed typically flowers between June and September. Despite Bindweed stems typically dying back in autumn, the root system remains and will be "ready to produce new shoots in spring". Nick Wood is a horticulture expert at online garden centre Gardening Express. He has issued a warning to Brits as we come into the seasons when Bindweed typically flowers. Arvensis: refers to plants typically found in, or associated with, fields or cultivated areas. From the Latin 'arvum' meaning field. Field Bindweed, Convolvulus arvensis. Leaves to 5cm, alternate with basal lobes. Flowers trumpet-shaped, white or pink and white, 1-3cm across. — Big Meadow Search (@bigmeadowsearch) March 22, 2025 He said: "Bindweed might look pretty with its delicate flowers and heart-shaped leaves, but don't be fooled - it's a rampant twining vine that can quickly smother other plants in your garden. "Hedge bindweed is the real culprit here, with its fast-growing, climbing stems that can wrap around and strangle anything in their path. "Field bindweed is less aggressive, but it's still a persistent problem, especially in open soil where it can spread rapidly. "While it's a native wildflower, its aggressive growth and spreading roots can quickly take over gardens and other natural areas, which is why it's incredibly invasive in the UK. Bindweed UK law Mr Wood added that while there is "no specific law directly addressing bindweed in the UK", Brits "all have a legal duty to manage invasive plants to prevent them from spreading and causing harm to neighbouring properties". The RHS adds that while you do not need to remove Bindweed from your garden, it can spread to other plants, so controlling it is key. @invasiveweeds Bindweed in Mid June with its Beautiful White Flowers Bindweed, also known as Convolvulus arvensis, is a common weed that produces beautiful white flowers during the summer months, including mid-June. Despite its attractive appearance, bindweed is considered an invasive plant that can be problematic in gardens and agricultural fields. #bindweed ♬ original sound - Invasive Weeds It said: "If left to grow in a wildlife corner or less-cultivated area, or through a mature hedge, it will boost the variety of living organisms (plants, animals, fungi and microorganisms) in a particular environment. "Boosting the biodiversity of your garden has many benefits, including supporting wildlife, improving soil health and reducing the likelihood of pest and disease problems. biodiversity of your garden and gives you a chance to enjoy its attractive flowers. "It is, however, a good idea to control the spread of hedge and field bindweed as they are both capable of outcompeting and smothering other plants." Is Bindweed poisonous? With Bindweed being very common in the UK, it is important to know if it is poisonous to humans or pets. Thankfully, unlike some other weeds in the UK, Bindweed is not poisonous. Poisonous Plants Found in the UK The expert explained: "Luckily, bindweed isn't poisonous to humans or pets, but it can be a nightmare for gardeners trying to keep it under control. This is despite the fact that its flowers can attract pollinators. "But don't let that fact lull you into letting it run wild - the damage it can do far outweighs any small benefit." Mr Wood also touched on how best to remove the invasive plant. Can you dig out Bindweed? How best to remove and kill it The expert warned Brits to "act quickly" if they find Bindweed in their garden. He also issued a guide on how to attack the plant and get rid of it. Bindweed can be a pest to properties as it grows fast and infiltrates property boundaries damaging the structure (Image: Getty Images) Mr Wood said: "Pull it up by hand, being careful to remove as much of the root system as possible. "If you leave even a tiny fragment behind, it can regrow and spread all over again. "You'll need patience and persistence, and be prepared to keep at it for several growing seasons. "Herbicides can work, but they often require multiple applications, and be careful not to damage nearby plants." If you are looking to dig out Bindweed, Mr Wood recommended against it. Recommended reading: He said: "You can try digging it out, but be warned - bindweed has a notoriously extensive root system. "If you miss even a tiny piece, it can regrow with a vengeance. Regular cutting and pulling can keep bindweed in check, but it's a long game. "Persistence is key, and whatever you do, don't let it flower - that's when it spreads even faster."
North Wales Chronicle
5 hours ago
- North Wales Chronicle
When Bindweed flowers in UK and how to kill and remove it
Bindweed is one of the common plants that can flower and cause problems in your garden. While it may look pretty, it has been described by experts as "rampant" and can "quickly smother other plants in your garden". Here is all to know about Bindweed, including what it looks like, when it flowers in the UK, if it is poisonous and how to remove it. Bindweed is a UK native wildflower, and while it can be beneficial to wildlife, its spreading roots and twining stems can cause issues in gardens. The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) highlights two types of common Bindweed, namely Hedge bindweed and Field Bindweed. Hedge Bindweed has heart-shaped leaves and funnel-shaped flowers. These are "usually white but can also be pale pink with a white centre and five white stripes". "After flowering, rounded capsules form, each containing up to four oval-shaped brown seeds," the RHS adds. Hedge Bindweed has heart-shaped leaves and funnel-shaped flowers (Image: Getty Images) Field Bindweed is described as "smaller and less vigorous", and has oval to arrow-shaped, grey-green leaves, with funnel-shaped flowers that are often pale pink, but can also be pink with a white centre and stripes, or plain white. Wildlife Trusts notes that Bindweed typically flowers between June and September. Despite Bindweed stems typically dying back in autumn, the root system remains and will be "ready to produce new shoots in spring". Nick Wood is a horticulture expert at online garden centre Gardening Express. He has issued a warning to Brits as we come into the seasons when Bindweed typically flowers. Arvensis: refers to plants typically found in, or associated with, fields or cultivated areas. From the Latin 'arvum' meaning field. Field Bindweed, Convolvulus arvensis. Leaves to 5cm, alternate with basal lobes. Flowers trumpet-shaped, white or pink and white, 1-3cm across. He said: "Bindweed might look pretty with its delicate flowers and heart-shaped leaves, but don't be fooled - it's a rampant twining vine that can quickly smother other plants in your garden. "Hedge bindweed is the real culprit here, with its fast-growing, climbing stems that can wrap around and strangle anything in their path. "Field bindweed is less aggressive, but it's still a persistent problem, especially in open soil where it can spread rapidly. "While it's a native wildflower, its aggressive growth and spreading roots can quickly take over gardens and other natural areas, which is why it's incredibly invasive in the UK. Mr Wood added that while there is "no specific law directly addressing bindweed in the UK", Brits "all have a legal duty to manage invasive plants to prevent them from spreading and causing harm to neighbouring properties". The RHS adds that while you do not need to remove Bindweed from your garden, it can spread to other plants, so controlling it is key. Bindweed in Mid June with its Beautiful White Flowers Bindweed, also known as Convolvulus arvensis, is a common weed that produces beautiful white flowers during the summer months, including mid-June. Despite its attractive appearance, bindweed is considered an invasive plant that can be problematic in gardens and agricultural fields. #bindweed It said: "If left to grow in a wildlife corner or less-cultivated area, or through a mature hedge, it will boost the variety of living organisms (plants, animals, fungi and microorganisms) in a particular environment. "Boosting the biodiversity of your garden has many benefits, including supporting wildlife, improving soil health and reducing the likelihood of pest and disease problems. biodiversity of your garden and gives you a chance to enjoy its attractive flowers. "It is, however, a good idea to control the spread of hedge and field bindweed as they are both capable of outcompeting and smothering other plants." With Bindweed being very common in the UK, it is important to know if it is poisonous to humans or pets. Thankfully, unlike some other weeds in the UK, Bindweed is not poisonous. The expert explained: "Luckily, bindweed isn't poisonous to humans or pets, but it can be a nightmare for gardeners trying to keep it under control. This is despite the fact that its flowers can attract pollinators. "But don't let that fact lull you into letting it run wild - the damage it can do far outweighs any small benefit." Mr Wood also touched on how best to remove the invasive plant. The expert warned Brits to "act quickly" if they find Bindweed in their garden. He also issued a guide on how to attack the plant and get rid of it. Bindweed can be a pest to properties as it grows fast and infiltrates property boundaries damaging the structure (Image: Getty Images) Mr Wood said: "Pull it up by hand, being careful to remove as much of the root system as possible. "If you leave even a tiny fragment behind, it can regrow and spread all over again. "You'll need patience and persistence, and be prepared to keep at it for several growing seasons. "Herbicides can work, but they often require multiple applications, and be careful not to damage nearby plants." If you are looking to dig out Bindweed, Mr Wood recommended against it. Recommended reading: He said: "You can try digging it out, but be warned - bindweed has a notoriously extensive root system. "If you miss even a tiny piece, it can regrow with a vengeance. Regular cutting and pulling can keep bindweed in check, but it's a long game. "Persistence is key, and whatever you do, don't let it flower - that's when it spreads even faster."
The Herald Scotland
6 hours ago
- The Herald Scotland
When Bindweed flowers in UK and how to kill and remove it
While it may look pretty, it has been described by experts as "rampant" and can "quickly smother other plants in your garden". Here is all to know about Bindweed, including what it looks like, when it flowers in the UK, if it is poisonous and how to remove it. How to Get Rid of These Common Garden Pests What is Bindweed and what does it look like? Bindweed is a UK native wildflower, and while it can be beneficial to wildlife, its spreading roots and twining stems can cause issues in gardens. The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) highlights two types of common Bindweed, namely Hedge bindweed and Field Bindweed. Hedge Bindweed has heart-shaped leaves and funnel-shaped flowers. These are "usually white but can also be pale pink with a white centre and five white stripes". "After flowering, rounded capsules form, each containing up to four oval-shaped brown seeds," the RHS adds. Hedge Bindweed has heart-shaped leaves and funnel-shaped flowers (Image: Getty Images) Field Bindweed is described as "smaller and less vigorous", and has oval to arrow-shaped, grey-green leaves, with funnel-shaped flowers that are often pale pink, but can also be pink with a white centre and stripes, or plain white. When does Bindweed flower in the UK? Wildlife Trusts notes that Bindweed typically flowers between June and September. Despite Bindweed stems typically dying back in autumn, the root system remains and will be "ready to produce new shoots in spring". Nick Wood is a horticulture expert at online garden centre Gardening Express. He has issued a warning to Brits as we come into the seasons when Bindweed typically flowers. Arvensis: refers to plants typically found in, or associated with, fields or cultivated areas. From the Latin 'arvum' meaning field. Field Bindweed, Convolvulus arvensis. Leaves to 5cm, alternate with basal lobes. Flowers trumpet-shaped, white or pink and white, 1-3cm across. — Big Meadow Search (@bigmeadowsearch) March 22, 2025 He said: "Bindweed might look pretty with its delicate flowers and heart-shaped leaves, but don't be fooled - it's a rampant twining vine that can quickly smother other plants in your garden. "Hedge bindweed is the real culprit here, with its fast-growing, climbing stems that can wrap around and strangle anything in their path. "Field bindweed is less aggressive, but it's still a persistent problem, especially in open soil where it can spread rapidly. "While it's a native wildflower, its aggressive growth and spreading roots can quickly take over gardens and other natural areas, which is why it's incredibly invasive in the UK. Bindweed UK law Mr Wood added that while there is "no specific law directly addressing bindweed in the UK", Brits "all have a legal duty to manage invasive plants to prevent them from spreading and causing harm to neighbouring properties". The RHS adds that while you do not need to remove Bindweed from your garden, it can spread to other plants, so controlling it is key. @invasiveweeds Bindweed in Mid June with its Beautiful White Flowers Bindweed, also known as Convolvulus arvensis, is a common weed that produces beautiful white flowers during the summer months, including mid-June. Despite its attractive appearance, bindweed is considered an invasive plant that can be problematic in gardens and agricultural fields. #bindweed ♬ original sound - Invasive Weeds It said: "If left to grow in a wildlife corner or less-cultivated area, or through a mature hedge, it will boost the variety of living organisms (plants, animals, fungi and microorganisms) in a particular environment. "Boosting the biodiversity of your garden has many benefits, including supporting wildlife, improving soil health and reducing the likelihood of pest and disease problems. biodiversity of your garden and gives you a chance to enjoy its attractive flowers. "It is, however, a good idea to control the spread of hedge and field bindweed as they are both capable of outcompeting and smothering other plants." Is Bindweed poisonous? With Bindweed being very common in the UK, it is important to know if it is poisonous to humans or pets. Thankfully, unlike some other weeds in the UK, Bindweed is not poisonous. Poisonous Plants Found in the UK The expert explained: "Luckily, bindweed isn't poisonous to humans or pets, but it can be a nightmare for gardeners trying to keep it under control. This is despite the fact that its flowers can attract pollinators. "But don't let that fact lull you into letting it run wild - the damage it can do far outweighs any small benefit." Mr Wood also touched on how best to remove the invasive plant. Can you dig out Bindweed? How best to remove and kill it The expert warned Brits to "act quickly" if they find Bindweed in their garden. He also issued a guide on how to attack the plant and get rid of it. Bindweed can be a pest to properties as it grows fast and infiltrates property boundaries damaging the structure (Image: Getty Images) Mr Wood said: "Pull it up by hand, being careful to remove as much of the root system as possible. "If you leave even a tiny fragment behind, it can regrow and spread all over again. "You'll need patience and persistence, and be prepared to keep at it for several growing seasons. "Herbicides can work, but they often require multiple applications, and be careful not to damage nearby plants." If you are looking to dig out Bindweed, Mr Wood recommended against it. Recommended reading: He said: "You can try digging it out, but be warned - bindweed has a notoriously extensive root system. "If you miss even a tiny piece, it can regrow with a vengeance. Regular cutting and pulling can keep bindweed in check, but it's a long game. "Persistence is key, and whatever you do, don't let it flower - that's when it spreads even faster."
