An invasive beetle has triggered Norfolk restrictions on how high Christmas trees can be grown and a ban on the planting of spruce trees.
The Forestry Commission says the measures are vital to protect trees from the eight-toothed spruce bark beetle.
The insect, known as Ips typographus, is a "serious pest", which was first spotted in the UK in 2018, after being blown over from the continent.
There have been further confirmed reports of the beetles this year, prompting the restrictions.
The pest attacks stressed or dying trees, but, in certain conditions, it will also attack healthy trees.
All of Norfolk and Suffolk are covered by the new restrictions over what the Forestry Commission defines as a Demarcated Area.
In that area, there is a ban on planting spruce trees, although there are exemptions in certain circumstances.
Planting spruce trees for ornamental and scientific purposes, growing on nursery sites for trade, or the planting of Christmas trees are allowed.
Christmas tree growers can continue to grow an unlimited number of spruce trees up to three metres in height above the root collar, but need authorisation for any taller trees.
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Andrea Deol, head of plant health at the Forestry Commission, said: "Ips typographus can have a serious impact on spruce trees, and so restricting spruce planting in some areas of East and South East England ahead of the tree-planting season will help with our ongoing eradication efforts.
"All landowners, managers and timber processors are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any sightings of the pest via our Tree Alert Portal."
Prof Nicola Spence, chief plant health officer at Defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs), said: "Ips typographus has the potential to cause significant damage to Great Britain’s forestry and timber industries.
"These new restrictions are part of continued action to limit the spread of the beetle and protect our nation’s trees and forest industries.
"All landowners and land managers should check the health of spruce trees on their land and take swift action to deal with any susceptible material."
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Any sightings should be reported to the Forestry Commission via the TreeAlert online portal at www.forestresearch.gov.uk/tools-and-resources/fthr/tree-alert
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