Landscape, Trees and Hedges
Apply to work on a Protected Tree
If you need to carry out works to a protected tree, you can apply online here.
Ash Dieback Disease
Find more information about Ash Dieback, including where you can get further advice and your responsibilities for any trees on your land.
Tree Maintenance
You can find out about tree ownership and who has responsibility for maintenance here.
South Hams Tree Warden Network
You can find information about the Tree Warden Scheme in the South Hams here.
Hedges in the Countryside
Hedgerows are protected by law. If you wish to remove one in the countryside you must apply to the Council.
Nuisance Hedges in Towns and Villages
Find out what the council can do about hedge and tree disputes between neighbours.
Landscape Character Assessment
A Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) has been prepared for South Hams and West Devon in 2018 and replaces the earlier assessments produced in 2007 and 2008.
Protected Trees
The Council has a duty to protect trees that have significant public amenity value. There are five types of tree protection.
Tree Preservation Orders
Protecting trees, copses and woodlands by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) served and enforced by the Council.
Request for a Tree Preservation Order
If you wish to ask the Council to consider serving a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) please use this form.
Trees on Development Sites
There is a clear and well-established process for protecting trees in relation to new development.
Apply for a Commemorative or Memorial Tree
Apply to place a memorial or commemorative tree.
Climate Change
South Hams District Council has declared a Climate Change and Biodiversity Emergency. Find out more here.