How to Protect Trees? A Reference to Understanding the status of protected trees
Trees play a crucial part in the environment, providing shade, clean air and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However they are not all alike and some have extra protection status, which makes it illegal to perform any activity without authorization. If you’re considering having a tree removed it is crucial to be aware of the protection status of the tree in question and the steps you need to take to ensure compliance with the law. The following article we’ll guide you through the process of determining whether the tree is protected and what you have to do to ensure you are acting within the law.
What exactly is a tree that is protected?
A protected tree is one that is subject to specific legal controls and it is unlawful to carry out work on a protected tree without obtaining the necessary permissions. There are two types of protection that trees may have - preservation and protection orders that are statutory.
Protection under the law
Under legal protection trees are protected by law and are in the hands of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are issued by local authorities to safeguard trees with a significant public value and to ensure that they do not get damaged or destroyed.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are similar to TPOs but are put in place by the Secretary of State for the Environment. The trees that are protected by preservation orders are considered to have an exceptional worth and are therefore protected from any kind of work, including cutting down.
What can I do to determine if a tree is protected?
To determine whether trees are protected, you must to determine if the tree is subject to the protection of a TPO or preservation order. This can be accomplished by contacting your local authority and asking them to search for records.
TPO search
To search for the TPO to locate one, contact your local Tree and Woodland officer of the local authority. They will inform you whether the tree is protected. They will also be able to guide you about the next steps to do if your tree is protected.
Preservation order search
If you are looking for a preservation order you must contact secretary of state for Environment. They will be able to tell you if the tree is protected and will provide the information you require and direction.
FAQs:
What happens if I conduct work on a protected tree without permission?
If you work on a tree that is protected without obtaining the necessary permissions, you could face significant fines, and possibly even jail time.
Can I contest a TPO Or preservation or TPO?
Yes, you are able to appeal an appeal of a TPO or preservation decision if you believe it is unjustified. However, you will need be able to present evidence to back your claim and explain your argument as to why the TPO or order to preserve is not necessary.
Can I cut down a tree that is protected tree?
It is illegal to remove trees that are protected without the required permissions. If you want removal of the tree it is necessary to request permission and submit the evidence needed to prove your case.
Conclusion
In the end, determining if trees are protected is an essential step to ensure that tree work is 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 are protecting the trees that you are responsible for. If you’re unsure of the status of protection for a tree, we recommend consulting an experienced tree expert such as Sydney Tree Removal Arborists. Our experienced arborists will be able to advise you about the protection status of your trees, and will guide you through the necessary steps to make sure you’re following the laws. With our expertise and commitment to provide high-quality tree services we will help you maintain the beauty and value of your trees. Contact us today by phone at 1300 636 143 to schedule a consultation and let us help you keep your trees protected and healthy.