The Ultimate Guide to Identifying Trees that are Protected Trees within Sydney
Trees play a crucial contribution to our ecosystem, providing shade, clean air and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However there are a few trees that aren’t alike and some have additional protection status, making it illegal to carry out any activity without authorization. If you are considering having a tree removed it is essential to know the status of protection for the tree being considered, and what steps you’ll need to take to ensure compliance with the legal requirements. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to determine if a tree is safe and exactly what steps you have to do to ensure that you are acting within the law.
What is a protected tree?
A protected tree can be subject to specific laws and regulations, and it’s illegal to carry out works on a tree without the required permissions. There are two kinds of protection that trees could be protected by - preservation and protection orders that are statutory.
Legal protection
In the context of the law trees are protected under law and are in the hands of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are put in place by local authorities in order to protect trees of significant public value and to ensure that they are not destroyed or damaged.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are like TPOs in that they are put in place from the Secretary of State responsible for Environment. Trees with preservation orders are considered to have an exceptional worth and are therefore protected from any work, including felling.
What can I do to determine whether a tree is safe?
To determine if trees are protected, you will need to determine if the tree is under a TPO or preservation or protection order. This can be done by contacting the municipal authority, and asking them to look up their archives.
TPO search
To find a TPO, you can contact an Tree and Woodland officer at your local authority. They will inform you whether the tree is in the protection. They will also be able to guide you on the next steps you should follow if the tree is protected.
Preservation order search
To search for a preservation permit, you’ll need to call secretary of state for Environment. They will determine whether the tree is protected and will provide the information you require and direction.
FAQs:
What is the consequence if I do work on a protected tree without permission?
If you work on a tree that is protected without the proper authorizations, you could be subject to substantial fines and even imprisonment.
Can I contest an TPO Or preservation or TPO?
Yes, you can appeal to a TPO or preservation or TPO if you feel that it is not justified. You will have to provide evidence to support your case and show that it is not necessary to appeal the TPO or the preservation decision isn’t needed.
Can I cut down a tree that is protected tree?
It is unlawful to take down a protected tree without obtaining permission from the appropriate authorities. If you need the tree to be removed then you must seek permission from the council and provide the evidence needed to prove your case.
Conclusion
To conclude, knowing if a tree is protected is an essential aspect in ensuring that tree work is carried out legally. By understanding the different types of protection and the best way to identify them, you can ensure that you’re in compliance with the law and protecting the trees in your care. If you’re not sure about the protection status of trees, we suggest consulting an experienced tree expert such as Sydney Tree Removers. Our arborists are experienced and will be able to advise you about the protection status of your trees and walk you through the steps to make sure you’re acting within the legal guidelines. With our experience and dedication to providing top-quality tree care we will help you preserve the beauty and value that your trees have. Call us now by phone at 1300 945 434 to schedule a appointment, and let us help you ensure that your trees are protected and healthy.