Trees in Churchyards

Special considerations apply to trees in churchyards, and most work can be undertaken as a List A or List B item (see Faculty Jurisdiction). Permission to fell a tree that is not dying or dangerous can only be granted via a Faculty. If a parish is considering works to trees, they should speak first of all to the DAC. If works are required in an emergency, for example after a storm or there is a health and safety risk, the parish should contact the Registry in the first instance for advice. Additionally, it is an offence to fell a tree which is the subject of a tree preservation order without the consent of the local planning authority.

The Church Buildings Council has issued Trees Guidance to PCCs, which has further useful information.