Q. Are all trees within a Conservation Area protected and, if so, does this differ from Tree Preservation Order legislation?
All trees within a Conservation Area with a stem diameter greater than 75mm are protected. The difference from a TPO is that rather than obtaining consent of the District Council before carrying out work you are only required to give 6 weeks written notification of your intention to carry out work to the tree. This gives the Council the opportunity to inspect the tree/trees concerned and decide if it needs to be protected by a Tree Preservation Order.

Q. Are the fines the same as those for Tree Preservation order contraventions?
Yes up to £20,000 in the Magistrates Court and unlimited fines if the case goes to the Crown Court.