Tree work in the New Forest National Park follows the same national rules as elsewhere, but with one important difference: it is the New Forest National Park Authority (NFNPA), not New Forest District Council, that deals with it. This step-by-step guide explains what to do.
Download this guide: PDF version (one page), handy for sharing with homeowners and property managers in the National Park.
Step 1: Check who deals with your property
If your property is inside the National Park boundary, tree work applications and notices go to the National Park Authority. Some nearby towns, including Lymington and Fordingbridge, are outside the park, where the district council deals with trees instead. If you’re not sure which side of the line you are on, ask the NFNPA’s tree team, or ask us to check as part of a survey.
Step 2: Check whether the tree is protected
The NFNPA publishes an interactive tree map showing which trees are protected by Tree Preservation Orders. The park also has many Conservation Areas, and a property can fall within a Conservation Area and have individual TPOs too.
- TPO trees need consent before most work.
- Conservation Area trees with a trunk over 75mm in diameter (measured 1.5m above the ground) need six weeks’ written notice before work.
Step 3: Describe the work clearly
Vague terms like “lop”, “trim” or “cut back” are a common reason for applications being queried. Say exactly which tree, what work, and how much: for example, “reduce the crown of the oak marked T1 by 2m, back to suitable growth points”. Mark the trees on a simple plan.
Step 4: Include supporting evidence
If the work is needed because of the tree’s condition, damage to a building or subsidence, include evidence such as photos or an arboricultural report. Applications without it are more likely to be delayed or refused.
Step 5: Submit the application
The NFNPA recommends applying online through the national Planning Portal. You can also email the completed form to trees@newforestnpa.gov.uk or post it to the Tree Team at Lymington Town Hall. The tree team can be reached on 01590 646660.
Step 6: Wait for the decision
Don’t start work until you have consent for TPO trees, or until the six-week notice period has passed for Conservation Area trees, unless the Authority has confirmed you can go ahead sooner.
Planning an extension or new build?
If you are applying for planning permission in the park, trees can carry extra weight, especially ancient and veteran trees. A BS5837 tree survey at the start of the design helps avoid delays. See also our guide: Do I need a tree survey for planning permission?
How we can help
We work across the New Forest National Park and know how the National Park Authority’s process works. We can check protection, specify the work, and prepare your application with supporting evidence. Read our New Forest advice, or email jonharper@harper-trees.co.uk or call 07982 911104 for a free quote.