Some trees within Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park are protected by Tree Preservation Orders. This means that it is an offence to cut down, top, lop, uproot or wilfully damage or destroy the tree, without first obtaining permission from the National Park Authority. There can be a fine of up to £20,000 for undertaking work to protected trees without permission.

Trees are protected if they are judged to give amenity value or enjoyment to the public. They can be made to individual trees, groups, areas of trees or to whole woodlands. Shrubs, bushes and hedges cannot be protected by tree preservation orders.

Not all trees are protected by tree preservation orders, but if you are planning to work on a tree or you are concerned that someone else is going to, contact Iona Hyde our Tree Officer at National Park HQ on 01389 722600 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it who can then investigate whether it is protected or not.

If you want to undertake work to a tree in a conservation area, you will need to give the National Park Authority at least six weeks notice. This allows us time to assess whether the tree should be protected by a tree preservation order.