The importance of protected Trees and How to Identify They Are Protected Trees

Trees play an important contribution to our ecosystem as they provide shade, clean air and aesthetic value our surroundings. However they are not all equal and some carry an additional status of protection, making it illegal to carry out any work without permission. If you’re considering having a tree removed, it’s essential to understand the protection status of the tree you’re considering, and the steps you have to take to ensure compliance with the laws. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to determine if a tree is safe and exactly what steps you have be doing to make sure you are following the law.
What is a protected tree?
A protected tree is one that has been subjected to certain laws and regulations, and it’s illegal to carry out works on a tree without the required permissions. There are two types of protection that trees may have - preservation orders and protection orders.
Statutory protection
As a matter of statutory protection, trees are protected by laws and under the control of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are issued by local authorities to safeguard trees of significant value to the public and to ensure that they do not get damaged or destroyed.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are similar to TPOs but are put in place through the secretary of state for the Environment. Trees with preservation orders are considered to have an exceptional value and are shielded from any kind of work, including cutting down.
How do I know when a tree is in danger?
To determine whether the tree is protected, you must to verify if it’s in the process of being subject to an TPO or preservation order. This can be accomplished by contacting the local authority and asking them to check their archives.
TPO search
To search for the TPO, you can contact an Tree and Woodland officer of your local authority, who can inform you if the tree is protected. They’ll also be able to guide you on the next steps to take if the tree is protected.
Preservation order search
In order to search for a preservation order, you will need to contact Secretary of State, Department of the Environment. They will be able to tell you whether the tree is in the protected zone and will provide the necessary information and guidance.
FAQs:
What happens if I carry out work on a protected tree without permission?
If you carry out work on a protected tree without the appropriate authorizations, you could be subject to massive fines or even prison.
Can I appeal to a TPO and/or preservation order?
Yes, you can appeal a TPO or preservation order if you feel it’s not justifiable. But, you’ll need to prove your argument and demonstrate why you believe that the TPO or order to preserve is not necessary.
Can I remove a protected tree?
It is against the law to remove protected trees without the required permissions. If you require the tree to be removed it is necessary to apply for permission and provide evidence to support your case.
Conclusion
In the end, determining if trees are protected is a crucial step to ensure that any tree work carried out legally. Understanding the different kinds of protection and how to determine if they are protected it is possible to be sure that you’re in compliance with the law and safeguarding the trees that you are responsible for. If you’re unsure of the protection status of a tree, we recommend seeking professional advice from an expert in tree care such as Sydney Tree Removers. Our arborists are experienced and will be able to advise you about the protection status of your trees and guide you through the required steps to ensure that you are following the legal guidelines. With our knowledge and dedication to provide high-quality tree services we will help you maintain the beauty and worth for your tree. Contact us now by phone at 1300 945 434 to schedule a consultation, and let us assist you to keep your trees protected and healthy.