How do I determine whether a Tree is protected before removing it

Posted by The Hills Aborist on 21 Jul 2026

Trees play an important part in the environment, providing shade, clean air and aesthetic value to our surroundings. However, not all trees are identical and some are granted additional protection status, making it illegal to perform any activity without authorization. If you are considering having a tree removed, it’s essential to understand the protection status of the tree being considered and what steps you’ll need to take to ensure compliance with the legal requirements. The following article we will guide you through the process of discovering whether the tree is secured and the steps you have be doing to make sure you are acting within the law.

What exactly is a tree that is protected?

A protected tree has been subjected to certain laws and regulations, and it’s illegal to{ carry out|| do} work on such a tree without having the appropriate permissions. There are two kinds of protection a tree could be protected by - statutory protection and preservation orders.

Statutory protection

Under statutory protection trees are protected under laws and in the hands of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). TPOs are put in place by local authorities to safeguard trees with a significant public value and to ensure that they do not get destroyed or damaged.

Preservation orders

Preservation orders are like TPOs in that they are issued from the Secretary of State responsible for Environment. Trees with preservation orders are considered to be of exceptional value and are shielded from any work, including the felling.

How do I know if a tree is protected?

To determine if trees are protected, you will need to verify if it’s in the process of being subject to a TPO or preservation or protection order. It is done by contacting the local authority and asking them to check their records.

To search for a TPO You can reach your local Tree and Woodland officer of your local authority, who can inform you whether the tree is protected. They’ll also be able advise you about the next steps to follow if the tree is in a protected area.

In order to search for a preservation order you must contact Secretary of State, Department of the Environment. They will tell you if the tree is protected and provide you with the necessary information and guidance.

FAQs:

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

If you{ carry out|| do} work on a tree that is protected without the proper authorizations, you could be subject to significant fines, and possibly even jail time.

Can I contest a TPO and/or preservation order?

You can appeal an appeal of a TPO or preservation or TPO if you feel that it is not justified. However, you will need to prove your case and show your argument as to why it is not necessary to appeal the TPO or the preservation decision isn’t necessary.

Can I remove a protected tree?

It is against the law to remove protected trees without the necessary permissions. If you require removal of the tree, you will need to request permission and submit the evidence needed to prove your case.

Conclusion

To conclude, knowing if a tree is protected is a vital step in ensuring that any tree work is legally completed. Understanding the different kinds of protection and the best way to check for them, you can ensure that you are acting within the law and protecting the trees that you are responsible for. If you’re unsure of the status of protection for a tree, we recommend seeking advice from a reputable tree specialist like The Hills Aborist. Our team of experienced arborists can advise you about the protection status of your trees and guide you through the{ necessary|| required} steps to ensure you are complying with the laws. With our knowledge and dedication to providing high-quality tree services, we can help you preserve the beauty and value for your tree. Contact us now at 0480 024 267 to schedule a consultation, and let us help you keep your trees protected and healthy.

With the appropriate tools and qualified professionals you can feel secure knowing that your property will be left undamaged and clean after the job is finished.
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