Cardiff Tree Works Bylaw Register - Memorial Applications

Parks and Public Spaces Wales 4 Minutes Read · published February 12, 2026 Flag of Wales

Cardiff, Wales maintains an official register and application process for tree works and memorial tree requests to protect trees in public parks and where Tree Preservation Orders apply. This guide explains the register, who enforces the rules, how to apply for work or a commemorative planting, and how to report unauthorised works. For the council tree works register and application guidance see Cardiff Council tree works[1].

Consult the council register before arranging work on trees that might be protected.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement for unauthorised tree work in Cardiff is administered through the council planning and tree protection framework; Tree Preservation Orders and planning controls are the primary instruments. Monetary penalties and exact fine levels are not stated on the cited council page; see the council planning/TPO information for council enforcement routes and contacts Cardiff Council planning - TPOs[2].

  • Non-monetary sanctions: enforcement notices, tree replacement orders and requirements to replant or remediate damage as applied by the council.
  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page; council explains enforcement procedures and may pursue prosecution where appropriate.
  • Court actions: prosecutions through the magistrates or crown courts may be used for serious or continuing breaches where set fines or orders are sought.
  • Enforcer and complaints: Cardiff Council Planning and Trees team handle complaints and inspections; use the planning/TPO page for contact points and reporting guidance.
  • Inspections and evidence: the council inspects reported works and maintains records in the register and application files.
If you think work is urgent for safety, notify the council first and record the reasons and any photos.

Applications & Forms

Apply for tree work or a memorial tree through the council application process; specific form names, application numbers and fees are set out on the council pages for tree works and memorial plantings. The council page for memorial trees and commemorative planting explains available schemes and how to apply Memorial Trees guidance[3]. If a Tree Preservation Order applies you must also follow the TPO application route described on the planning pages.

  • Form name/number: not specified on the cited page; use the council tree works and memorial tree pages for the current application form or online submission instructions.
  • Fees: not specified on the cited page; check the application page or contact the Planning and Trees team for current charges.
  • Deadlines and decision times: decision periods are set by the council planning process or scheme guidance; see the application page for current timescales.
  • Submission method: online application via the council planning portal or by email/post as instructed on the council page.
If a tree is subject to a TPO you must apply before doing non-emergency works.

Common violations and typical outcomes

  • Unauthorised pruning or felling of TPO trees — likely enforcement notice and requirement to replant; fines not specified on cited page.
  • Works within conservation or protected land without consent — investigation and possible prosecution.
  • Failure to comply with enforcement notices — escalation to prosecution and court orders.

Action steps

  • Check the register and application guidance before arranging works and download or request the correct application form.
  • Contact Cardiff Council Planning and Trees to report unauthorised works or to confirm whether a tree is protected.
  • Pay any required fees and keep proof of submission and permits on site while works take place.
  • Document health-and-safety or emergency reasons if work is urgent; notify the council as soon as possible.

FAQ

Do I need permission to prune a street or protected tree?
Yes. If the tree is protected by a Tree Preservation Order or is on council land you generally need consent; check the council register and apply before non-emergency works.
How do I apply for a memorial or commemorative tree?
Apply via the council memorial trees guidance page where the scheme and submission method are explained; availability and any fees are shown on the council page.
What should I do if someone has cut down a protected tree?
Report it to Cardiff Council Planning and Trees immediately with photos and location details; the council will investigate and may issue enforcement notices or pursue prosecution.

How-To

  1. Identify whether the tree is protected by checking the council register and TPO information and note location and ownership.
  2. Review the council tree works and memorial tree guidance and download or request the correct application form.
  3. Complete the application with a clear description of proposed works, attach photos or plans, and include any contractor or safety information.
  4. Submit the application as instructed on the council page and retain proof of submission; await council decision before starting non-emergency works.
  5. If you discover unauthorised works, report to the council with photos and details to trigger an inspection.

Key Takeaways

  • Always check the Cardiff register and TPO status before arranging work on trees.
  • Apply through the council application routes for tree works or memorial trees to avoid enforcement.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Cardiff - Tree works
  2. [2] City of Cardiff - Tree Preservation Orders
  3. [3] City of Cardiff - Memorial Trees guidance

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