When there’s no formal designation on a tree but it is positioned in an area with any designation, it should be assumed that the trees could be protected. If not, the Local Planning Authority needs to have the time to assess whether the tree under the application is worth protecting under a formal TPO. In order to temporarily protect that tree from works that would put its aesthetic value in danger, a Provisional TPO is placed.

These orders have a duration of 6 months and are made when an urgent order needs to be placed. A normal tree preservation order takes effect when confirmed. In order to prevent tree felling before an order can come into effect the local authority can make a provisional tree preservation order that includes a provision for the order coming into effect on the date specified.