Protecting Trees: A Guide to Understanding Protected Status
Trees play an important contribution to our ecosystem, providing shade, clean air and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However, not all trees are identical and some are granted additional protection status, making it illegal to do any activity without authorization. If you’re considering having a tree removed it is essential to know the status of protection for the tree you’re considering and what steps you’ll need to take to comply with the law. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to determine if the tree is safe and exactly what steps you need to do to ensure that you are following the law.
What is a protected tree?
A protected tree can be subject to specific legal restrictions, and it’s illegal to{ carry out|| do} work on such a tree without having the appropriate permissions. There are two kinds of protection a tree might have: statutory protection and preservation orders.
Statutory protection
Under legal protection trees are protected by the law, and they are under the control of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are enacted by local authorities to safeguard trees of significant value to the public and to ensure that they do not get destroyed or damaged.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are like TPOs in that they are issued by the Secretary of State for the Environment. Preservation orders for trees are considered to have an exceptional value and are shielded from any kind of work, including the felling.
How can I tell if a tree is protected?
To determine if trees are protected, you need to verify if it’s in the process of being subject to the protection of a TPO or preservation order. This can be accomplished by contacting your authorities in your area and asking them search their archives.
TPO search
If you want to find the TPO to locate one, contact an Tree and Woodland officer from your local authority, who can inform you whether the tree is protected. They will also be able to guide you on the next steps you should follow if the tree is in a protected area.
Preservation order search
If you are looking for a preservation permit, you’ll need to call the Secretary of State for the Environment. They will tell you if the tree is protected and provide you with the necessary information and guidance.
FAQs:
What happens if I carry out work on a tree that is protected without permission?
If you{ carry out|| do} work on a protected tree without the appropriate permits, you could be facing substantial fines and even imprisonment.
Can I appeal an TPO Or preservation or TPO?
Yes, you can appeal an appeal of a TPO or preservation decision if you believe it’s not justifiable. But, you’ll need to provide evidence to support your case and show why you believe that the TPO or order to preserve isn’t needed.
Can I cut down a tree that is protected tree?
It is illegal to remove trees that are protected without the necessary permissions. If you need removal of the tree, you will need to request permission and submit evidence to support your case.
Conclusion
To conclude, knowing if trees are protected is a crucial aspect in ensuring that tree work is legally completed. By understanding the different types of protection, and knowing how to check for them, you can ensure that you’re in compliance with the law and are protecting the trees that you are responsible for. If you’re not sure about the status of protection for trees, we suggest seeking professional advice from an expert in tree care like Sydney Wide Tree Removal. Our experienced arborists will be able to advise you on the protection status of your trees and guide you through the{ necessary|| required} steps to make sure you’re acting within the laws. With our expertise and commitment to provide high-quality tree services, we can help you preserve the beauty and worth for your tree. Contact us today at 1300 152 268 to schedule a consultation and let us guide you on how to keep your trees safe and healthy.