Protecting Trees: A Guide for Understanding the status of protected trees
Trees play a crucial role in our environment as they provide shade, clean air, and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However, not all trees are equal and some carry an additional status of protection, making it illegal to carry out any activity without authorization. If you are considering having a tree removed it is essential to know the protection status of the tree being considered and what steps you’ll need to take to ensure compliance with the laws. The following article we will guide you through the process of determining whether a tree is secured and the steps you need to do to ensure that you are acting within the law.
What exactly is a tree that is protected?
A protected tree is subject to specific legal restrictions and it is unlawful to carry out work on a protected tree without the required permissions. There are two types of protection that trees may have - preservation orders and protection orders.
Protection under the law
In the context of legal protection trees are protected under laws and subject to Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are issued by local authorities in order to protect trees with a significant public value and to ensure that they are not destroyed or damaged.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are like TPOs in that they are issued by the Secretary of State for the Environment. The trees that are protected by preservation orders are considered to have exceptional worth and are therefore protected from any work, including cutting down.
How can I tell when a tree is in danger?
To determine whether trees are protected, you need to verify if it’s subject to a TPO or preservation order. This can be accomplished by contacting your municipal authority, and asking them to look up their archives.
TPO search
If you want to find a TPO You can reach your local Tree and Woodland Officer of your local authority, who will inform you whether the tree is in the protection. They’ll also be able advise you about the next steps to take if the tree is in a protected area.
Preservation order search
To search for a preservation permit, you must contact secretary of state for Environment. They will tell you whether the tree is protected and provide you with the necessary information and guidance.
FAQs:
What happens if I conduct work on a tree that is protected without permission?
If you work on a protected tree without the proper permissions, you could face substantial fines and even imprisonment.
Can I appeal to a TPO or preservation order?
Yes, you can appeal to a TPO or preservation or TPO if you believe it’s not justifiable. However, you will need to provide evidence to support your claim and explain why you believe that the TPO or order to preserve is not necessary.
Can I cut down a tree that is protected tree?
It is unlawful to take down a protected tree without obtaining the necessary permissions. If you want removal of the tree, you will need to seek permission from the council and provide the evidence needed to prove your case.
Conclusion
In conclusion, discovering whether trees are protected is a vital aspect in ensuring that any tree work is legally completed. By understanding the different types of protection and the best way to identify them to ensure you’re following the law and protecting the trees that you are responsible for. If you’re unsure of the protection status of a tree, we recommend consulting a reputable tree specialist such as The Hills Aborist. Our team of experienced arborists will be able to advise you on the protection status of your trees and walk you through the necessary steps to ensure that you are following the laws. With our knowledge and dedication to providing top-quality tree care we will help you preserve the beauty and value that your trees have. Contact us now by phone at 0480 024 267 to schedule a consultation and let us guide you on how to ensure that your trees are protected and healthy.