Avoiding the Tree Removal Mistakes that can be made: How to Know whether a Tree is protected

Trees play a crucial role in our environment, providing 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 activity without authorization. If you are considering having a tree removed it is crucial to be aware of the protection status of the tree being considered, and the steps you need to follow to be in compliance with the laws. This article we will guide you through the steps to determine if a tree is safe and exactly what 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 is one that can be subject to specific legal restrictions It is illegal to work on such a tree without obtaining the necessary permissions. There are two kinds of protection that a tree could be protected by - statutory protection and preservation orders.
Legal protection
Under statutory protection, trees are protected by laws and 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 are not destroyed or damaged.
Preservation orders
Preservation orders are similar to TPOs but are put in place by the Secretary of State for the Environment. Preservation orders for trees are considered to have exceptional worth and are therefore protected from any kind of work, including felling.
How do I know if a tree is protected?
To determine if trees are protected, you must to determine if the tree is in the process of being subject to the protection of a TPO or preservation orders. This can be done by contacting your municipal authority, and asking them to check for records.
TPO search
If you want to find the TPO, you can contact the Tree and Woodland Officer at your local authority. They will inform you if the tree is protected. They’ll also be able advise you about the next steps to do if your tree is in a protected area.
Preservation order search
If you are looking for a preservation order, you must contact Secretary of State, Department of the Environment. They can tell you whether the tree is protected and will provide the information you require and direction.
FAQs:
What happens if I carry out work on a protected tree without permission?
If you carry out work on a tree that is protected without the appropriate permissions, you could face significant fines, and possibly even jail time.
Can I contest an TPO or preservation order?
You can appeal an appeal of a TPO or preservation or TPO if you believe that it is not justified. However, you will need to prove your argument and demonstrate that you believe that the TPO or preservation order is not necessary.
Can I remove a protected tree?
It is illegal to remove protected trees without the required permissions. If you want removal of the tree it is necessary 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 crucial step in ensuring that any tree work is legally completed. If you know the various types of protection, and knowing how to determine if they are protected to ensure you’re following the law and safeguarding the trees you care for. If you’re unsure of the status of protection for trees, we suggest consulting a reputable tree specialist such as Blacktown Tree Removal. Our arborists are experienced and can advise you regarding the status of protection of your trees and guide you through the required steps to ensure that you are acting within the law. With our knowledge and dedication to providing top-quality tree care we will help you keep the beauty and worth of your trees. Contact us today by phone at 0480 024 203 to schedule a consultation, and let us assist you to ensure that your trees are protected and healthy.