What Makes a Tree Protected and how to find out
Trees play an important role in our environment as they provide shade, clean air and aesthetic value our surroundings. However they are not all equal and some carry extra protection status, which makes it illegal to carry out any work without permission. If you are considering having a tree removed it is crucial to be aware of the protection status of the tree being considered and what steps you’ll need to take to comply with the law. This article we’ll walk you through the steps to determine if a tree is protected and what you have be doing to make sure that you comply with the law.
What exactly is a tree that is protected?
A protected tree is subject to specific legal restrictions, and it’s illegal to work on such a tree without having the appropriate permissions. There are two kinds of protection that a tree could be protected by - preservation orders and protection orders.
Legal protection
Under the law, trees are protected by the law, and they are in the hands of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are enacted by local authorities in order to protect trees of significant value to the public and ensure they are not damaged or destroyed.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are similar to TPOs , but are issued through the secretary of state for the Environment. Trees with preservation orders are considered to be of exceptional worth and are therefore protected from all work, which includes felling.
How do I know when a tree is in danger?
To determine if the tree is protected, you need to check if it is subject to a TPO or preservation order. This can be done by contacting the local authority and asking them to look up their records.
TPO search
To search for a TPO, you can contact an Tree or Woodland Official of your local authority. They can inform you if the tree is protected. They’ll also be able advise you on the next steps to do if your tree is in a protected area.
Preservation order search
If you are looking for a preservation order, you’ll need to call the Secretary of State for the Environment. They can tell you whether the tree is in the protected zone and give you the required information and guidelines.
FAQs:
What happens if I conduct work on a protected tree without permission?
If you work on a protected tree without the appropriate permits, you could be facing massive fines or even prison.
Can I contest a TPO Or preservation or TPO?
Yes, you can appeal an appeal of a TPO or preservation decision if you believe that it is not justified. However, you will need to provide evidence to support your claim and explain why you believe that the TPO or preservation order is not necessary.
Can I take down a protected tree?
It is unlawful to take down protected trees without the necessary permissions. If you need removal of the tree it is necessary to seek permission from the council and provide proof to back your claim.
Conclusion
To conclude, knowing if the tree is protected is a crucial step in ensuring that any tree work carried out legally. If you know the various types of protection and the best way to identify them to ensure you are acting within the law and safeguarding the trees that you are responsible for. If you’re unsure of the status of protection for trees, we suggest seeking professional advice from an experienced tree expert such as Inner West Tree Removal. Our team of experienced arborists will be able to advise you about the protection status of your trees and walk you through the steps to make sure you’re complying with the laws. With our knowledge and dedication to providing top-quality tree care, we can help you preserve the beauty and value that your trees have. Call us now by calling 1300 636 143 to schedule a appointment, and let us guide you on how to ensure that your trees are protected and healthy.