A Beginner's Introduction to Understanding Protected Trees

Posted by The Hills Aborist on 21 Jul 2026

Trees play a crucial part in the environment as they provide shade, clean air, and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However, not all trees are alike and some have an additional status of protection, making it illegal to carry out any work without permission. If you’re thinking of 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 legal requirements. This article we’ll guide you through the process of determining whether a tree is protected and what you need to do to ensure you comply with the law.

What is a protected tree?

A protected tree is one that is subject to specific legal controls It is illegal to do works on a tree without obtaining the necessary permissions. There are two kinds of protection that a tree might have: preservation orders and protection orders.

In the context of 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 ensure they are not destroyed or damaged.

Preservation orders

Preservation orders are like TPOs in that they are set up 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 felling.

What can I do to determine whether a tree is safe?

To determine whether trees are protected, you need to determine if the tree is under the protection of a TPO or preservation or protection order. It is done by contacting your municipal authority, and asking them to look up for records.

To find an TPO, you can contact your local Tree and Woodland Officer at your local authority, who will be able to tell you whether the tree is in the protection. They’ll also be able advise you on the next steps you should take if the tree is in a protected area.

In order to search for a preservation order you must contact the Secretary of State for the Environment. They will inform you whether the tree is protected and give you the required information and guidelines.

FAQs:

What happens if I carry out work on a protected tree without permission?

If you work on a tree that is protected without the appropriate authorizations, you could be subject to massive fines or even prison.

Can I contest an TPO and/or preservation order?

You can appeal to a TPO or preservation or TPO if you feel it’s not justifiable. However, you will need to provide evidence to support your case and show that the TPO or preservation order is not necessary.

Can I cut down a tree that is protected tree?

It is against the law to remove a protected tree without obtaining the required permissions. If you require removal of the tree it is necessary to request permission and submit proof to back your claim.

Conclusion

In the end, determining if the tree is protected is an essential step in ensuring that any tree work carried out legally. By understanding the different types of protection and how to identify them to ensure you’re in compliance with the law and are protecting the trees that you are responsible for. If you’re not sure about the protection status of the tree you are in charge of, we suggest consulting an experienced tree expert like The Hills Aborist. Our experienced arborists will be able to advise you regarding the status of protection of your trees and guide you through the necessary steps to ensure you are complying with the laws. With our expertise and commitment to providing top-quality tree care we will help you keep the beauty and value of your trees. Contact us now by phone at 0480 024 267 to schedule a appointment, and let us assist you to keep your trees protected and healthy.

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Here at The Hills Aborist The Hills Shire, we focus on security and efficacy with our tree removal solutions. We use a detailed approach and have such high standards of safety that means we can complete all of our tree removal jobs with great efficacy without sacrificing in safety or quality.

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The Hills Aborist is the greatest source for professional tree removal The Hills Shire. Our technical team is highly trained and experienced. We are proud to be among the greatest providers of the service in The Hills Shire and surrounding regions.

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Is it now the right time to care for your trees? At The Hills Aborist, we’re proud to offer professional services in the heart of The Hills Shire without sacrificing on quality or affordability. Our team continues to provide high quality workmanship for tree services in the business and always strives to be the ideal. We offer access to a variety of different types of services including tree trimming, pruning, replanting, maintenance, and/or tree trimming.

Consequently, if you want us to remove the entire tree or do away with a tree stump, The Hills Aborist has the required skills, experience and equipment necessary to give you a professional service.

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